Changing break oil - online resource?

[rdiprima]

I just purchased a 2002 Gary Fisher Big Sur w/ Hayes hydraulic breaks. The bike had almost no miles on it when I bought it, so was in very good condition; the break pads have little wear. I have noticed, however, that my break levers are starting to come almost to the handle grips when I break, so I think it may be time to replace the fluid. Can anyone point me to an online resource or form posting that describes how to do a "break job". Also, how to people generally recommend disposing of the used oil? Auto garage?

Thanks!

[johnt]

Most Hayes brakes have a little screw that adjusts how far the handles come to the handlebars. Mine come loose after a few rides. I would check that first. Unless you have a fluid leak I would think this will solve your issue. The tighter the screw is the farther away the handles will stay from the bars.

[BikerMiker]

You may have air in the system. I wouldn't recommend working on those without someone with experience. Hydraulics are simple in principle, but there are a lot of little tricks to make sure that you are doing it right. Also, the fluid is not fun to deal with so make sure you keep it off of your frame, pads, rotors, etc.

Good luck.

mike

[rdiprima]

Great advice, thanks. Do you mean the little flathead (not hex) screw that faces toward you if you're looking at the bike head on? I will try this first!

[rdiprima]

Thanks; air in the line is certainly a possibility. Several ppl have told me that i do not want to spill the fluid on myself, bike, paint, etc. Do I need to have it specially disposed of at an auto garage? - Richard

[philvw]

Also, there is something about Hayes hydraulic brakes that are position sensitive. They dont like to be inverted for some reason, it gets air in the lines, even with no visible leakage. Upside down is appearently the worst. I never believed it until I stored mine hanging from the front wheel, The front stayed ok, but the back stopped working. Now it sits on the rubber as if it was riding on a trail. No worries.

[jvanbrecht]

Thanks; air in the line is certainly a possibility. Several ppl have told me that i do not want to spill the fluid on myself, bike, paint, etc. Do I need to have it specially disposed of at an auto garage? - Richard

You should be able to take the fluid to any Jiffy lube, or oil changing facility, or any repair facility for disposal (they may charge a nominal fee, like a $1 or $2 for disposal). It is toxic, and it is illegal to dump break fluid down the drain (either in your house or on the street). Some dumps will take toxic waste (the dump in PG county takes absolutely everything but asbestos).

[DMarchy1]

If you need to hang your bikes from a wall or rafters, sqeeze your brake levers and place a rubber band or twist tie on the lever to keep them closed. This will stop air from being able to travel to the calipers. Works for all brands of Hydralic brakes. Dave M.