Special Tools
DescriptionPart NumberQty.
DOT 4 BRAKE FLUID MOISTURE TESTER
HD-48497-A
1

NOTE
WARNING
Clean reservoir filler cap or cover before removing. Use only DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed container. Contaminated fluid can adversely affect braking, which could result in death or serious injury. (13720a)
Checking Brake Fluid Level
  1. Set motorcycle upright. Verify that the fluid in the reservoir is level. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Preparing the Motorcycle for Maintenance.
  2. Front: See Figure 1. Check level in front reservoir sight glass. Fluid level must be at or above the minimum mark on glass.
  3. Rear: See Figure 2. Check level on side of rear brake reservoir. Level must be above MIN.
Figure 1. Front Master Cylinder Reservoir Sight Glass
Figure 2. Rear Master Cylinder Reservoir MIN Level
Changing Brake Fluid
WARNING
Contact with DOT 4 brake fluid can have serious health effects. Failure to wear proper skin and eye protection could result in death or serious injury.
  • If inhaled: Keep calm, remove to fresh air, seek medical attention.
  • If on skin: Remove contaminated clothing. Rinse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes. If irritation develops, seek medical attention.
  • If in eyes: Wash affected eyes for at least 15 minutes under running water with eye lids held open. If irritation develops, seek medical attention.
  • If swallowed: Rinse mouth and then drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. Contact Poison Control. Immediate medical attention required.
  • See Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for more details available at sds.livewire.com
(12208e)
WARNING
DOT 4 brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time, changing the properties of the fluid. Check brake fluid moisture content at every service interval or annually (whichever comes first). Flush and replace the brake fluid every two years, or sooner if moisture content is 3% or greater. Failure to flush and replace fluid can adversely affect braking, which could result in death or serious injury. (06304b)
NOTICE
DOT 4 brake fluid will damage painted and body panel surfaces it comes in contact with. Always use caution and protect surfaces from spills whenever brake work is performed. Failure to comply can result in cosmetic damage. (00239c)
To ensure the brake system is performing to design, check the moisture content of the brake fluid at every service interval or at least annually using a DOT 4 brake fluid moisture tester (part number HD-48497-A or equivalent) following the instructions included with the tool. Flush DOT 4 fluid every 2 years or sooner if the brake system fluid test shows moisture content is 3% or greater.
It is recommended to use Harley-Davidson Platinum Label DOT 4 Brake Fluid because of its superior moisture and corrosion inhibiting properties.