7
Troubleshooting
T r o u b l e s h o o t i n g
NOTICE
Do not apply DOT brake fluid or grease to caliper pistons when performing troubleshooting procedures. Use of DOT brake fluid or grease can
diminish braking performance and cause rotor rubbing.
If your brakes exhibit excessive lever throw or spongy feel, perform the following steps before bleeding the system:
1.
Clamp the bicycle into a bicycle work stand.
2. Remove the wheel from the affected caliper.n
3. Remove the brake pads.
4. Install the pad spacer.
5. Squeeze the brake lever several times until the pistons have advanced and contact the pad spacer. One piston may move faster than the other;
continue to squeeze the lever until the pistons touch the spacer.
6. Remove the pad spacer.
7. Use a plastic tire lever to push the pistons back into the caliper bores.
8. Repeat steps 4-7 until the pistons move freely.
9. Install the brake pads and the wheel.
10. Loosen the caliper bolts.
11. Lightly squeeze (approx. 4 lbs) the brake lever several times to position the brake pads to the proper distance from the rotor.
12. Center the caliper on the rotor, and tighten the caliper bolts.
13. Spin the wheel and check the brake function. The pistons should move freely and there should not be excessive brake lever throw. If there is no
improvement in the brake function, proceed with caliper service.
