Powersports Brake Master Cylinders

The majority of powersports machines use hydraulic brakes for slowing down and stopping the vehicle. Some models also use hydraulic clutches for disengaging the drivetrain. When you press a lever or step on a pedal, a piston in a master cylinder forces the brake fluid, which cannot be compressed, to push on pistons in brake calipers or clutch assembly. If you feel that your brakes fade or become spongy, it usually indicates problems with your hydraulic lines. When there are no apparent leaks in the system and brake bleeding does not help, you may need to replace or rebuild your master cylinder.

Worn seals and gaskets can allow air to enter the system thus significantly reducing the efficiency of your brakes. Master cylinder rebuild kits offered in our online store usually contain protective boots, springs, seals, retainer rings, and bushings. To service the handlebar master cylinder, first, you have to remove the lever to expose the rubber boot covering the end of the piston. Remove this old boot to reveal a retainer ring. The easiest way to take it off is to use special circlip pliers while pressing on a piston. After that, you can remove the piston from the cylinder.

You can simply cut old, worn out rubber seals and install new ones in their place. Check the installation guide provided with the kit or read the owner’s manual to make sure that the seals are installed correctly. Lubricate your seals with brake fluid so that they could slide down into their place easier. Install the spring and slide the piston back into the cylinder. Close it with a washer and retainer ring. Put the rubber boot on top of the piston end. Now you can reinstall the lever. Each time after performing any maintenance on the hydraulic brakes, it is necessary to bleed the system.