rear brake has issues...and now so do I. :)

[Craigcb]

So I just bought my 83 VR and was doing some basic maintenance before going on my maiden voyage for the year. I was checking fluid level and when I got to the rear brake reservoir, I put a wrench on this bolt, and this is what happened. I wonder what type of silicone the PO used? Nice.....

 

 

 

[Flyinfool]

Bummer.

But that is actually fairly common to break that off.

 

Ebay might be your friend here, or maybe some one has one on a parts bike.

 

Seeing as how it is brakes which are the most important thing on a bike, I would not try to "glue" it back on.

 

When trying to get the plug out, put a second wrench on the flats of the casting to help support it. The casting does break easy.

[Condor]

Sorry to see that happen, but.... thanks for the great pic of the baffle inside. That's the one that needs to be refolded to keep the dash light from blinking saying the fluid is low. What happens is when extended it holds the sensor float down and sets off the warning light. I usually go in there with a piece of L shaped coat hanger to lift it up. Not perfect but will get a couple of folds...folded.... and get rid of the light....

 

I used to take aluminum parts over to a guy that welded aluminum. It might be a way to go if finding one gets to be to difficult. Weld it and chase the threads with a tap...

[Craigcb]

Mr Condor,

 

Good to know on the baffle and light issue. You folks are turning my lemon into lemonade with the extra knowledge. I tend to agree with Flyinfool that brakes are the most important thing on a bike. I will try to avoid fixing this and hopefully score a different one. However there is no harm in showing it to a few folks to see if it is possible to weld it and still be safe. I just wonder how long it has been that way and how many miles it went down the road broken. And BTW... No charge for the cutaway pictures!

[flyday58]

This was mine. POJ.

[skydoc_17]

Hey Craig,

First off, sorry about you luck there! I personally wrap that bolt with white teflon thread tape and have never had one break off on me. Second, I have a few of those First Gen. rear brake reservoirs here at the shop. If someone needs one, I can help you with that. I personally would not suggest that you repair this unit, considering that a failure of this reservoir takes out two thirds of your braking ability.

Earl