Front Brake Failure - Help!

[Nozz]

The front brake on my Silver Star failed this morning and left me walking. I happen to have a used spare to try a quick road side repair, but wanted to ask for advice from the group. Symptom wise, I noticed a slight drag on the disc, felt the grip and first it was stiffer than normal, then a couple of minutes later I had no brake at all, then it just tightened up and I was stopping right quick! First question, does this seem like a failure at the master cylinder end or the caliper end? Secondly, what is the next step for repair, can this be rebuilt or will I need a new caliper. ( It is a Grimeca single piston style) Thanks in advance.

Jim

[DAVID THOMPSON]

the parts up on the handle let fluid bleed back after you release brake
sounds like problem is in master cylinder
i will look at my parts book and see if overhaul kit is listed

does yours have a square top or screw off round top where fluid is poured in to reservoir
on there round top cyl there is a spring in side
ar dave

ps check if hand lever has full return travel when released or pressure will not release

items 2 to 6 on page
if this is not your master cyl i can post other one
or if you have parts book its on page32

[phlat65]

yeah, if you crack the line or bleeder at the caliper and the brake releases, then you have a problem in the master. if the brake is still stuck, then caliper. did you make any recent adjustments or repairs?

[Nozz]

Thanks for the advice. It is a rectangular reservoir model and I have a spare from my other bike. They towed it so I have to track it down and repair on the spot tomorrow. I will post another reply once I get it back on the road.

-Jim

[Nozz]

We're back on the road again. Apparently the brake pads just wore down completely and overheated causing the brake to sieze up. I substituted my spare caliper, so now I wonder if there is a quick cross reference part number for new pads for this brake. Are these same brakes used on any other bikes? Thanks!

-jim

[DAVID THOMPSON]

ebc fa18

some bmw models 1981 on

parts unlimited # = 1721 0259 = sbs 506hf r


came out bigger than i wanted but here it is for all to see
what fa18 fits

ar dave

[Nozz]

Thanks Dave, I will track down some pads. I may seek to rebuild the caliper so I wonder if there is a cross ref. for this as well??