Special Tools
| Description | Part Number | Qty. |
|---|---|---|
| DOT 4 BRAKE FLUID MOISTURE TESTER | HD-48497-A | 1 |
NOTE
- At every service, check moisture content of fluid using DOT 4 BRAKE FLUID MOISTURE TESTER (Part Number:HD-48497-A). Follow the instructions included with tool.
- Flush brake system and replace DOT 4 fluid every two years or sooner if brake fluid test shows moisture content is 3% or greater.
- Do not add or remove fluid from the brake system to compensate for normal wear. Reservoir volume is adequate to provide fluid to the wear limits of the pads and discs.
- Fluid level in reservoir will decrease with brake wear. If fluid level is low, check brake pads and discs for wear. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Inspecting Brake Pads and Discs.
WARNINGClean 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
- Set motorcycle upright. Verify that the fluid in the reservoir is level. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Preparing the Motorcycle for Maintenance.
- Front: See Figure 1. Check level in front reservoir sight glass. Level must be above minimum mark on side of reservoir.
- Rear: See Figure 1. Check level on side of rear brake reservoir. Level must be above minimum mark on side of reservoir.
| 1 | Front reservoir sight glass |
| 2 | Minimum mark |
| 3 | Rear reservoir sight glass |
Figure 1. Brake Fluid Reservoirs
Changing Brake Fluid
WARNINGContact 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.harley-davidson.com
WARNINGDOT 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.
Harley-Davidson recommends using Harley-Davidson Platinum Label DOT 4 Brake Fluid because of its superior moisture and corrosion inhibiting properties.