You are more than welcome, every rider has a first bike, every new rider faces the uphill nervous struggle to cope with maintenance that nobody tells you how to do...the dealer will do it for you for a fee lol.. but they are never willing to teach you how...hardly in thier interest i guess... Knowledge is free and tips are for sharing, thats what makes biking a brotherhood, one i have loved being part of for 30 years... ride safe and keep it real buddy... cheers.. Del.
Newbie to bikes used my sfv gladius throughout winter and now experiencing binding front pads and this video has given me confidence to carry out what seems a relatively simple maintenance job
Go for it Graham, get stuck in and make 'em shiny like brand new mate... you'll be surprised how it will improve them... and then just wash then out in situ every time you ride in the salt and wet... it'll keep em clean and you wont need to do this again.. Good luck buddy.. let us know how you get on.. Del.
These videos normally suck. This was great info and you are a colorful character. The final bit about pumping them back up is aces, probably just saved my life.
To avoid damaging plastic or metal parts close to the calipers, use the new DW-40 Degreaser & cleaner. It is very gentle around and yet strong to clean it all. I never use spray can. and never a strew on it. Also, use a soaked shoe lace to clean around the pistons. It works like magic.
Came back from the garage, sad news - sticking, binding breaks - watched a heap of videos on "how to" but no one explains how the system works, what's the role of the master cylinder and how exactly it retracts the pots. Im watching your videos sometimes for fun, sometimes to learn stuff, thank you Del, you have taught me how to maintain, upgrade, repair, rat and re-beauty my bikes. Keep up the good work :)
Hi mate, Im glad you are getting stuck in yourself and making your own repairs now, itys a great step forward and one that will keep you from laying pout good money for things you can do yourself... good luck mate, thanks for watching and ride safe.. Del.
sir, you are a hero to many. you gave me the confidence to replace my break pads. today i saved over £50 on labour charges. my breaks work perfect. well done to the camera person. clear and steady hands.
Thank you Lee, it's soo good to hear that the videos help and we hope you'll do somthing nice with your savings today ! These jobs are not hard, but like you say, seeing it done helps, so thanks for taking the time to send us your lovely message... and Penny says thanks for the compliment on her filmage! All the best, D&P!
Hey buddy.... a wise old mate of mine has a very rightous saying..... "The only stupid question is the one you dont bother to ask".... its a pleasure to help out.... ride safe. Del.
You did right buddy, its never wrong to poke some new pads in there, peace of mind and they will last a lot longer... plus they dont cost that much... and yes, a little 'crumbling' on the edges is usual, mainly with old pads that have not done many miles (been standing).. its no big deal just shows that the pad meterial has gone hard and brittle, whech m,eans it wont be as grabby and effective... good going mate.. well done on getting stuck in yourself... ride safe. Del.
got my hands dirty for 1st time on my bike following this video, cleaning up the brakes was very easy following your vid Del, I also managed to get rid of this annoying squeak that the bike had developed over the last few weeks doing this so am well pleased - your creating a nation of bike mechanics Del - thanks again...
Delboy, would just like to say a quick thank you. My front brakes were binding after a trip to Wales through some gritty weather. Did this to my brakes toady, my brakes are slightly different but the principle is the same. They now feel better than since I have owned the bike! Cheers mate.
Hi Mutt, thanks... I always love to hear this mate, it's just housekeeping and costs nothing, but makes such a difference to your road safety... glad it could help you out!
Hi Del, I just wanted to say thank you for doing these videos. Normally I pay a dealer to install new brake pads but watching your various videos gave me the confidence to have a go at changing pads and giving the calipers on my Fazer a good clean myself. The way you explain everything in detail yet make things look so easy. It really does feel like having a mate nearby teaching us essential skills which not only save us money but also allow us to do a proper job at cleaning all that crap out of awkward places. So thank you once again Del, you are indeed a star. May you and Penny always ride safe. Cheers Dave
Thats great news Dave, we so love to hear that others have saved a heap of money doing their own work.. so often it's nothing more than house keeping.. Keep is it with the maintenance buddy, and always feel free to drop me a line if you get stuck.! ride safe yourself.. all the best.. Del & Pennyx
Hi mate, first you shouldn't have used WD40 to clean your calipers, you should used brake cleaner, thats what its for, WD40 is OIL, and will have left residue everywhere, which will bleed onto your brakes and send you into a hedge, so strip them right down, install some new seals and clean everything with brake cleaner to get all the WD40 off....and yes, if the seals are stiking out you've pumped out too far,,,but no matter as you have to rebuild them now anyway due to oil contamination..Del.
I have a humble little scooter, but this video is so well explained and demonstrated it's given me the confidence to clean my caliper and sort the brake enough to get it moving again. Such a good job of explaining the why's as well as the how's. Cheers!
Thanks Kevin, glad it could help you mate, and jolly good on ya for getting stuck in and doing it yourself... best of luck with it, ride safe and enjoy the summer mate!
Got my first bike this summer and learnt heaps from your channel e.g. on wiring accessories etc and will be cleaning my brakes for the first time tomorrow. Your videos are always really clear for novices, save me money and bit by bit increase my knowledge of how my bike works. Many thanks
You're most welcome mate, im glad the videos can help you, and make life a bit easier...drop us a line any time you get stuck, always happy to help... Del.
Hi - I have a '99 Tiger 955 - brakes have been seized for months now to the point where the bike is not being used sometimes for weeks at a time - I was about to actually remove all three calipers and attempt to strip them down completely. I only found your video when I was sitting in bed deliberately delaying the job! Had no idea it was this easy. Went straight to Halfords after watching vid, Got all three calipers cleaned and unlocked in less than 90mins thanks to you - thumbs up from me!
Pushing the pistons back will push the fluid up, obviously, and if you fitted new pads then naturally the reservoir will be fuller, but as the pads wear the fluid will drop to compensate for the space ... you'll know if there is too much fluid in there as the brakes won't release, so as long as they are releasing completely the fluid can be left as it is ... the sight glass is just to check when it's too low or too dirty ... Cheers, Del
Just saw the vid today. I have a Thruxton 900 and I want to start looking after it this year. Thank you so much. The scariest part was taking it all apart, and you've shown us that so well. Cheers from Birmingham.
Hi Tim...exactly that matey...take the calipers off the legs...drop the pads out..DONT PUMP THE BRAKES..and get busy with some dead hot soapy water and an old tooth brush all round the pistons and seals...get them as best you can....then build it back up and it should be a lot better....if that doesnt work chap...you may have to rebuild them with some new seals..i have videos on both if you get stuck...good luck with it.. take care, Del.
Really grateful for this video. I bought my first bike a few months ago, a very nice 600k2. I was warned that the front brakes were a bit worn, after watching this I checked and there was no pad left on them. I followed your vid and replaced both sets in an hour. You saved me a lot of money... Thank you.
Well Del,i have just done my front brake calipers after watching this vid on my bandit for the first time after owning the bike for over 7 years (guilty as charged) i have never done it or ever considered it untill now..it took over an hour to free up one piston which was solid..how the hell i ever managed to stop before i did this is beyond me,used two full cans of cleaner aswell..All i can say is thanks,the transformation of the brakes now are unbelievable.....love watching your vids and again guilty as charged i have seen them all with a piece of cake in hand of course..cheers again i would never of thought of doing this on any of my bikes i have owned but from now on i will....cheers..
Well done Adam, glad to hear you got then sorted mate, its not a bad thing in a busy life to neglect things like this...that's just life.. we can always find something more important to be doing aye.?.. Thanks for taking the time to write, its always good to hear that the videos have been of some use to another rider... take care mate and keep up with the cake... you know its right.. Del.
Hi Cameron...thanks for your compliments....the pads squeal due to ultra-hi frequency vibration a little bit like running a wet finger round the top of a glass vase......just drop the pads back out, smear some Copperslip on the back of the pads (the surface that touches the pistons), and it will stop it completely.....not too much mind, just a butter thin smear....let us know how that goes...good luck, Del.
I've got a Pan European 1100P that just failed an MOT due to binding front brakes after being laid up for over a year. As you suggested in your opening statement, as a reletivley new biker, I was also a little afraid of 'messing' with the brakes due to them being a major safety component. I found your video essential in getting my bike serviced and back on the road, so i'de like to extend a personal thanks for your informative and educational video guide!
Thats great to hear you made good use if it mate, its all to help us save a few pennies for beer and tyres....plus we can keep our bikes safe and stay out playing longer... keep safe this winter, take care. Del.
Between this video and the video on brake pads I've just swapped the front pads on the Daytona 👍🏻 nice to watch the videos and jump in with the confidence of seeing it done. NC23 project bike also on the go, total strip down and rebuild of the bike, so huge appreciation to Del and Penny for the time and effort that goes into all of this 🙂
Thanks Tony, thats great news, we're really glad you can use the videos to help you out. good luck with the Baby Blade, what a wonderful bike to restore, not many left now... Keep at it buddy, and take care.. Del.
My only reservation after such a well explained and demonstrated video would be that I would have liked to have seen you pump the brakes and then lift the front and see if it binds
Hi buddy, yes it is...exactly the same, pistons go in and out, get jammed up with road crud, and need cleaning off.... so one pistone or 8... itys the same reasoning... you will notice an improvment afterwards... let me know how you get on, and well done for getting two wheels mobile... a ped is better than a car dude,,,ride safe.. Del.
I've just done this with my Rf900 and its improved the brakes 100%. From no initial bite and no real power at all, to now working as well, and that just washing one calliper that did seem to heat up the disk!
Great video inspires confidence for all like me who thought brakes were too risky to mess with. I followed your instructions to free both front calipers which now work a treat, and something as an all year round rider I'll be doing more often. Last year failed my MOT 'cos of this and it cost £120 , not anymore. Cheers.
Bloody hell, thats daylight robbery David....but i guess they lunch out on the fact that "its brakes, and brakes is important".... glad to hear you're taking it on for yerself now.. nice one matey... thanks for watching...and good luck with it... Del.
Hey thank matey, i appreciate you taking the time ot comment here....the video seems to have helped out loads of riders this time of year with getting their bikes ready for the new season....glad you liked the alun key trick, just makes it quicker i guess..lol.. take care mate and ride safe.. Del.
Nice one Cameron, I'll take you up on that offer ... there's nothing better than a beer and a yarn with a kindred spirit! Take care, mate, and ride safe, Del
Yes mate, exactly that, the salt and moisture will have crusted them up, so drop the calipers off the legs, take the pads out and give them a good thorough clean and fettle....if that fails, you may need to strip them and put some new seals in, i have a couple of how to videos if you're stuck... good luck matey.. Del.
Excellent. I am not great with tools but, as far as cleaning and performing preventative maintenance like this, watching this video, as its step by step even I could do it and will do on my next bike. I wish I had known this when I used to ride my bike through rain, snow and ice, I could always tell the brakes were being impacted and shops only wanted me to buy new calipers when I knew it wasn't needed. Absolute credit to you for sharing and helping keep others safe and do some basics on our own bikes! I owe you one of those 86,000 types of coffess and a squashed cheese and tomato roll, I mean PA-NI-NI lol when we meet some time.
Ha ha, ill have a panini..but id rather have a Bacon sarnie any day..lol Thanks for your kind comments buddy, im glad the videos have helped you out,.. and good on you for getting stuck in.! ride safe fellah, and enjoy the summer.. Del .
That is so kind, thank you for those kind comments, getting a bike to a state where you are really confident with it and happy with its condition is a bind with every new ride you own....but once its done you can enjoy it in peace. .. im glad you have got it sorted out, if tyou get stuck then feel free to ask, im happy to help with what ever i can.... take care.. Del.
Thank you kindly my friend, it's great to have your support, it's been quite inspirational how people have taken to dealing with their own brakes, they are not mechanically complex or difficult to work on, just a serious component being as they stop you embedding yourself in the van you are following, but that's no reason to fear them, get stuck in, let me know if you need any help, cheers, Del
Ha ha, thats so kind, thank you.... i guess its down t being spotted by the Descovery channel guys, and with millions of tubers out there, its a tall order even getting seen... i do it to save my biking buddies a few shekles...and entertain those who like to watch... i really appreciate the support... thanks again.. Del.
Thanks for the video. I jumped away to set about scrubbing, when I got them back on pulled the break lever to have it hit the bar thought I'd screwed up. Came back in to watch the end of the video - that helped!
Just wanted to say thanks for the time and effort you put into these videos. I probably fit the description of the folks you mentioned in the video, I'm a young penniless student and bought my first motorbike earlier on this year. I paid about £300 for a mechanic to replace the rear tyre, oil and filter, and to fix a binding front brake. I discovered today that the binding brake has returned, and your videos have given me the confidence to try rectify the problem myself. Thanks man!
To do this... Garage: Charges for me are roughly around £150 - £200 to replace the FRONT pads (ONLY) and clean the calipers; Yeah jobs a good one, but you've spent far more money and learnt nothing. Yourself: Costs under £80 and you've learnt a new skill; You can now maintain your bike better.
Hi mate, thanks for watching, the copper grease if you choose to use it is between the pad back and piston face to absorb the high frequency micro vibration that leads to squealing, usually I don't bother unless they squeak, then I do!
Hi Del. I have had problems with our 2016 FJR's front brakes binding on due to road salt. I'm not that confident about doing maintenance other than oil changes, however watching you clean your caliper and pads makes me think that I should be doing this instead of paying our dealer to do it. Many thanks for the excellent work here. Ride safe.
Hi Paul.. im glad the video could give you some confidence, good luck with it, once its done you'll feel so happy that you saved all that money on what is just house keeping... thanks for wathcing and good luck.. Del.
just did a inspection and clean of my front brake pads and calipers. Cleaned her up reaaaal good and what a difference it's made. Front braking is soo responsive now, gotta make sure i don't lock up!
You sir, are exactly the reason i make the videos, and im really glad it helped you out, please let me know if there is anything you get stuck with, and ill try to help... good luck, and well done for getting stuck in yourself... cheers Del.
Many thanks. Very comprehensive. My bike has been off the road for a while and the brakes need freeing up. I now feel confident to give it a go. Thanks also for the bobbins tip.
Just to say a big thank you. Your video has given me the confidence to do this job myself. I was only planning on replacing worn brake pads, front and rear, on my motorbike, but now I'll get some cleaning done too. Much appreciated mate.
Good man Tom, it aint hard is it?, and good brakes save your life, while keeping them good yourself saves you money...the pads last longer and the discs too in the long run.... well done sir, once the spin the bobbins you'll notice it will be a lot better.... if not, you may have caliper issues, check out the full rebuild video if you need to, its a bit more involved, but that will guarantee them to be as good as they were the day it rolled off the line.... well done again mate... Del.
Ha ha, thanks for the shout mate....i would imagine they were hoping you would book it in for a brake rerurb, glad you got it sorted and well done on getting stuck in yourself....now you know something you didn't, and can pass it on to others... take care mate and thanks for watching... Del.
Well I got round to cleaning my callipers this afternoon, it was well worth the effort, each front calliper had a piston that was hardly moving, so cleaned them out and freed up all the pistons, and god what I difference it has made, I did the fluid change a couple off weeks ago, and was surprised the lever did not feel a bit farmer after doing that, well now it feels much better who knew a bit of cleaning could have such a big affect :) keep up the good work mate.
You're most welcome Bruce, its just plain old house keeping, and as you'll see, it will make them work better too, and that HAS to be a good thing... ride safe chap, cheers, Del.
Thanks mate, you are very kind, its usually simple stuff and its important to spread such knowledge among ourselves... i appreciate youe kind comments and support... take care, Del.
Thanks alot, I did and was keen to do all what you done in the video, just didn't know if it was correct or if there was a better way - now I can trust you're experience to give me that bit extra confidence when doing maintenance..... I find myself saving a small fortune in not having to pay a man. lol
Excellent videos :-) been a biker for years but always been worried about doing stuff myself and always left it to my garage, but after watching some of your videos I'm going to try a few bits for myself. Time to stop neglecting my Fazer. Thanks for the vids :-)
Hi Stuart, good on you mate, it makes you feel epic when you do a job you previously didnt venture into....and often it expands your biking enjoyment and helps keep you safe on the road....not to mention lkeeps your sheckels in your pocket..and thats ALL good.... lol.. take care buddy, and go get stuck in... Del.
Hello there, thank you for your kind message, it makes me very happy when a rider has been able to make proper use of the video, and gain some benefit from them... it will have also made you a little more aware of your bike and in touch with its constantly changing condition.. and thus in turn, keep yourself safer... thanks again for taking the time to write such a nice comment.. take care and ride safe.. Del.
Even though your pads are not sided, you should still keep track of which side they came out of for three reasons. 1)The pads will wear to match the side of the rotor they came off of. If the rotor is worn differently on one side vs the other, you will have reduced braking ability until they wear down to match again. 2) If one pad is wearing faster than the other, it can be an indication of a frozen piston and it will be something you want to take care of right away. 3) If your pistons aren't frozen (or you're just to lazy to fix the problem) knowing which side is wearing faster will allow you to swap sizes and extend your pad life.
Firstly, I have now subscribed becauase that was actually far superior teaching than so many other videos online! Secondly, thank you for correctly showing me how to use my allen key's at 06:20, what a master!
Thanks for this video Delboy, I was just about to ask you how to do a quick caliper clean because my brakes had been sticky since winter's end. No need, everything's in here. Out to the garage now, thanks again.
Great video mate, only recently discovered your channel, definitely helping me to do a lot of the maintenance. Thanks for the information mate, very friendly delivery too.
Great video and never hurts to be reminded if the simple things that need doing done mine over the last couple of days and yes they needed doing lol. 1250 gt bandit rider here so great to see the work you do on them. Great work
Steve, you clearly got away with that mate, glad you're ok now.. and you said it right, so many courses dont teach the right thing, they focus in teaching skills you dont really need ,and neglect the basics..its also a casualty of the modern world, everyone thinks that a bike is 'plug and play' these days, buy it new and neglect it till its time to take it in for 5k service..sadly is a mark of our times, a throw away society, i gave up ranting at the moon about it long ago...take care mate, Del.
Thanks Peter, a little knowledge goes a long way hah?, glad you can use the videos, thats why we load them, so thanks for your kind support.... take care, Del.
Cheers mate... sadly, it's a regular winter chore we all have to live with! But make a good job of it and your brakes will just like they were the day it left the factory! Ride safe, mate, and well done for riding in the winter! Del
Great explanation. I'm the same as you regarding the "Torque settings" on the calipers. I've learned to "feel" the pressure over the years. The pumping of the pads back out also applies to fitting new tyres. Same as you said, it happened to me...ONCE! lol. Cheers.
@snocrushr Too right, and its the single most common cause of warping discs...hardly ever are they warped due to the rider being a track hero and overheating them with speed and hard use... its always neglect.. thanks ,mate.. Del.
@chidlowt Hi there. yes i do if they ever squeel, because that's all it's for, copper slip has a downside of collecting more dust and promoting the buildup of crud, and that crud builds up right against the piston faces and can cause accellerated corrision, this in the end leads to them needing rebuilding, so if you ever do use copper grease, use very little, just a tiny smear to damp the high freaquency vibration, and if they dont squeel, you dont need it, just keep them washed out
Good demonstration sir! Definitely could see how the binding could cause some issues! It's awesome that you ride throughout hte winter... New garage is looking good. Its funny how some of your terminology slightly differs form ours in the US. Ed from Wheeler Dealers, same with him. Here we would say, fixed, figured out, solved, but you guys often call that "sorted". I love it!
Hi Malcolm - sadly, if you've chewed a screw head out the only tool that will help you is a drill bit. Use one the same size as the shank of the screw, drill into the head till it pops off like a ring round the drill bit, then you can remove whatever was holding it on and extract the remaining stump with grips, etc., go careful as most things are screwed into alloy so don't drill too deep and bugger up the thread.. just enough to take the head of the screw off ...good luck, Del
Thanks for another great Vid Del, it was only yesterday I watched your bobbin video again. Due the knowledge you have been passing on you inspired me to take my full test. I have now sold my 125 and tonight picked up an SV 650, nice bike but has been neglected for the last few months, using the methods you have been passing on I am confident I can get it back on top form. I hope the house move is almost complete, I know how long that can drag on for. Keep up the good work.
Thanks again Delboy, great vid. Just waiting for my paddock stand to arrive and I've been trying to get the front wheel off the ground in some shape or form for two weeks now. Needless to say the trolley jack is coming out when I get home from work! Thanks again and keep the vids coming.
Hi mate, yeah it sounds like you may have either pumped it out so far that its gone 'scew wiff', and needs to be straightened up and lined up with the bore.(it will never go in crooked no matter how much you force it).OR.you may have to take the piston out of the caliper all together and clean it all inside..sometimes dirt can build up behind it and it can wedge it out.have a watch of my later video on how to rebuild a caliper, its all there in detail and very easy. let me know if you get stuck.
No,brake cleaner is perfectly safe for use on brakes,but as it is a solvent then used directly on the rubber constantly it could lead to a little perishing..but used sparingly now and again it's absolutely fine... Thanks for watching, Cheers, Del
Eric Effert Ha ha, wasnt even aware i was doing it.. its just my drivvel...how mamny versions of English must there be now aye..?.. take care and thanks for watching..Del
Well done, buddy for getting stuck in, keeping them washed out and tip top will actually make them last longer as well as work better as you've seen ... and squeaks LOL! Cheers, Del
@ilaku Ha ha, why thankyou kind sir, you are too generous, its just a bit of winter house keeping, nothing special... but im glad it helped you, and thanks for subscribing too, i really appreciate the support. Ride fast... Del.
Wow, Thanks, Del. I'm gonna have to move my bed into the garage to get all this stuff done. This is something I've never seen anyone else mention. Good tip. thanks again. Can't wait to get the new house with a working garage. My current garage is too small and I have a 66 Impala rag top that needs restoring in there but it's going away soon. I do all my work in the driveway under a pop up tent, lol.
A '66 Impala rag top... I hate you already lol! What a beautiful car... some years back, Penny & I had a '67 Coronet R/T and had to admit defeat in the end with the cost of fuel... we couldn't enjoy it anymore... then it makes me cry to think what we sold it for compared to what they are worth now! Thanks for watching buddy, Del
Moonfleet41 Yeah, it was my mom's car. she absolutely loved it. She asked me to take it when she couldn't drive anymore. I drove it for a while then retired it to the garage. A neighbor saw it one day and talked me into restoring it. We started, he moved and I couldn't devote much time at all to it due to family and work. I haven't done anything to it for about 4 years now. I have accumulated a ton of parts and it's just taken over the whole garage. My wife knows me better then anyone and she helped me look at it realistically rather then sentimentally. It will kill me to sell it but it has to be done. The only bright spot is I get to move my bike out of the Cycleshell and back into the garage.
@jimbo80982 Ayup Jimbo, yes indeed, many people insist on greasing the back of the pads, most seem to do it for a numbner if incorrect reasons such as the ones you say... but the precise reason for greasing the pad back is to prevent squeel...the grease absorbs and eliminates the high frequency vibration that manifests as a squeek or squeel.... on the down side, it also collects dust and adds to the crud that seizes calipers..mine have never needed it, so i dont use it.
Hi Matt. im glad it worked out for you mate, well done on getting it sorted yourself, you are now a little better at keeping your bike safe than you were before ...and thats always good... take care, ride safe, and all the best for the new year.. Del.
@boredofitall No they can be a bit stiff sometimes, specially on the older bikes.. but a well freed up caliper working properly shouldnt be too hard to force the piston back in... bigger pistons can be stiffer, so if you have twin pots rather than four.. then maybe thats it.. sliding calipers also dont need them to be as mobile as fixed ones too, just different setup thats all Sal.
@turbocobra Why thanks Gary, you are too kind sir, riding in winter makes you a much better rider all year round and with todays economy, and heavy traffic, its the only way to travel. I too have a fascination with 'Pan-English', its a world langauge now, and the colloquialisms that go with it make it a rich subject..in both our countries we have huge differnece from north to south, "Sorted" is a southern/London thing, but it kind of spreads, bit like Y'all. take care buddy. Del.
Hi matey, thank you kindly for your comments, the camera work is all down to clever Penny Pitstop, she knows what to shoot.. i just do the dirty bit..lol.. thanks for watching, and take care. Del.
Sounds like fuel starvation mate...check if the carbs are getting enough fuel..(take the hose off the carb end, poke it in a jam jar and twist it onto reserve)....should run a free drain of petrol with no dribbling.....is the tank breather blocked...if its not delivering from the tank, is the filter blocked in the tap...is the fuel line trapped of kinked....there are lots of things to check, but its all just a case of elimination mate...good luck, Del.
been watching back a lot of videos lately and they are all great! I reckon Damage muse be the most wrongly judged bike ever. people will look at it think "wicked" but they won't think it's one of the most well maintained suzuki's in the country! Thanks a lot for what you do!
You are more than welcome, every rider has a first bike, every new rider faces the uphill nervous struggle to cope with maintenance that nobody tells you how to do...the dealer will do it for you for a fee lol.. but they are never willing to teach you how...hardly in thier interest i guess... Knowledge is free and tips are for sharing, thats what makes biking a brotherhood, one i have loved being part of for 30 years... ride safe and keep it real buddy... cheers.. Del.
thats what I was looking for a no nonsense clear guy to explain things nice one I will subscribe
Newbie to bikes used my sfv gladius throughout winter and now experiencing binding front pads and this video has given me confidence to carry out what seems a relatively simple maintenance job
Go for it Graham, get stuck in and make 'em shiny like brand new mate... you'll be surprised how it will improve them... and then just wash then out in situ every time you ride in the salt and wet... it'll keep em clean and you wont need to do this again.. Good luck buddy.. let us know how you get on.. Del.
These videos normally suck. This was great info and you are a colorful character. The final bit about pumping them back up is aces, probably just saved my life.
To avoid damaging plastic or metal parts close to the calipers, use the new DW-40 Degreaser & cleaner. It is very gentle around and yet strong to clean it all. I never use spray can. and never a strew on it. Also, use a soaked shoe lace to clean around the pistons. It works like magic.
Did not think of that sorry shoes
Is it safe to use brake cleaner on the pistons/seals?
Came back from the garage, sad news - sticking, binding breaks - watched a heap of videos on "how to" but no one explains how the system works, what's the role of the master cylinder and how exactly it retracts the pots. Im watching your videos sometimes for fun, sometimes to learn stuff, thank you Del, you have taught me how to maintain, upgrade, repair, rat and re-beauty my bikes. Keep up the good work :)
Great video. When I do brakes on a car, I always put the keys on the brake pedal so I can't forget to pump the pedal back up when I'm done.
Hi mate, Im glad you are getting stuck in yourself and making your own repairs now, itys a great step forward and one that will keep you from laying pout good money for things you can do yourself... good luck mate, thanks for watching and ride safe.. Del.
sir, you are a hero to many. you gave me the confidence to replace my break pads. today i saved over £50 on labour charges. my breaks work perfect. well done to the camera person. clear and steady hands.
Thank you Lee, it's soo good to hear that the videos help and we hope you'll do somthing nice with your savings today ! These jobs are not hard, but like you say, seeing it done helps, so thanks for taking the time to send us your lovely message... and Penny says thanks for the compliment on her filmage! All the best, D&P!
Hey buddy.... a wise old mate of mine has a very rightous saying..... "The only stupid question is the one you dont bother to ask".... its a pleasure to help out.... ride safe. Del.
You did right buddy, its never wrong to poke some new pads in there, peace of mind and they will last a lot longer... plus they dont cost that much... and yes, a little 'crumbling' on the edges is usual, mainly with old pads that have not done many miles (been standing).. its no big deal just shows that the pad meterial has gone hard and brittle, whech m,eans it wont be as grabby and effective... good going mate.. well done on getting stuck in yourself... ride safe. Del.
got my hands dirty for 1st time on my bike following this video, cleaning up the brakes was very easy following your vid Del, I also managed to get rid of this annoying squeak that the bike had developed over the last few weeks doing this
so am well pleased - your creating a nation of bike mechanics Del - thanks again...
Delboy, would just like to say a quick thank you. My front brakes were binding after a trip to Wales through some gritty weather. Did this to my brakes toady, my brakes are slightly different but the principle is the same. They now feel better than since I have owned the bike! Cheers mate.
Hi Mutt, thanks... I always love to hear this mate, it's just housekeeping and costs nothing, but makes such a difference to your road safety... glad it could help you out!
Hi Del, I just wanted to say thank you for doing these videos. Normally I pay a dealer to install new brake pads but watching your various videos gave me the confidence to have a go at changing pads and giving the calipers on my Fazer a good clean myself.
The way you explain everything in detail yet make things look so easy. It really does feel like having a mate nearby teaching us essential skills which not only save us money but also allow us to do a proper job at cleaning all that crap out of awkward places. So thank you once again Del, you are indeed a star. May you and Penny always ride safe.
Cheers
Dave
Thats great news Dave, we so love to hear that others have saved a heap of money doing their own work.. so often it's nothing more than house keeping.. Keep is it with the maintenance buddy, and always feel free to drop me a line if you get stuck.! ride safe yourself.. all the best.. Del & Pennyx
Hi mate, first you shouldn't have used WD40 to clean your calipers, you should used brake cleaner, thats what its for, WD40 is OIL, and will have left residue everywhere, which will bleed onto your brakes and send you into a hedge, so strip them right down, install some new seals and clean everything with brake cleaner to get all the WD40 off....and yes, if the seals are stiking out you've pumped out too far,,,but no matter as you have to rebuild them now anyway due to oil contamination..Del.
I have a humble little scooter, but this video is so well explained and demonstrated it's given me the confidence to clean my caliper and sort the brake enough to get it moving again.
Such a good job of explaining the why's as well as the how's.
Cheers!
Thanks Kevin, glad it could help you mate, and jolly good on ya for getting stuck in and doing it yourself... best of luck with it, ride safe and enjoy the summer mate!
Got my first bike this summer and learnt heaps from your channel e.g. on wiring accessories etc and will be cleaning my brakes for the first time tomorrow. Your videos are always really clear for novices, save me money and bit by bit increase my knowledge of how my bike works. Many thanks
You're most welcome mate, im glad the videos can help you, and make life a bit easier...drop us a line any time you get stuck, always happy to help... Del.
Hi - I have a '99 Tiger 955 - brakes have been seized for months now to the point where the bike is not being used sometimes for weeks at a time - I was about to actually remove all three calipers and attempt to strip them down completely. I only found your video when I was sitting in bed deliberately delaying the job! Had no idea it was this easy. Went straight to Halfords after watching vid, Got all three calipers cleaned and unlocked in less than 90mins thanks to you - thumbs up from me!
Pushing the pistons back will push the fluid up, obviously, and if you fitted new pads then naturally the reservoir will be fuller, but as the pads wear the fluid will drop to compensate for the space ... you'll know if there is too much fluid in there as the brakes won't release, so as long as they are releasing completely the fluid can be left as it is ... the sight glass is just to check when it's too low or too dirty ... Cheers, Del
Just saw the vid today. I have a Thruxton 900 and I want to start looking after it this year. Thank you so much. The scariest part was taking it all apart, and you've shown us that so well. Cheers from Birmingham.
Glad the videos could help you, good to hear you're taking care of the Thruxton! Have fun and ride safe!
Hi Tim...exactly that matey...take the calipers off the legs...drop the pads out..DONT PUMP THE BRAKES..and get busy with some dead hot soapy water and an old tooth brush all round the pistons and seals...get them as best you can....then build it back up and it should be a lot better....if that doesnt work chap...you may have to rebuild them with some new seals..i have videos on both if you get stuck...good luck with it.. take care, Del.
Great all round bike mate, like the Ford Mustang of the bike world, easy to live with, cheap to own and fund....and a great starting point.
Really grateful for this video. I bought my first bike a few months ago, a very nice 600k2. I was warned that the front brakes were a bit worn, after watching this I checked and there was no pad left on them. I followed your vid and replaced both sets in an hour. You saved me a lot of money... Thank you.
Well Del,i have just done my front brake calipers after watching this vid on my bandit for the first time after owning the bike for over 7 years (guilty as charged) i have never done it or ever considered it untill now..it took over an hour to free up one piston which was solid..how the hell i ever managed to stop before i did this is beyond me,used two full cans of cleaner aswell..All i can say is thanks,the transformation of the brakes now are unbelievable.....love watching your vids and again guilty as charged i have seen them all with a piece of cake in hand of course..cheers again i would never of thought of doing this on any of my bikes i have owned but from now on i will....cheers..
Well done Adam, glad to hear you got then sorted mate, its not a bad thing in a busy life to neglect things like this...that's just life.. we can always find something more important to be doing aye.?.. Thanks for taking the time to write, its always good to hear that the videos have been of some use to another rider... take care mate and keep up with the cake... you know its right.. Del.
Hi Cameron...thanks for your compliments....the pads squeal due to ultra-hi frequency vibration a little bit like running a wet finger round the top of a glass vase......just drop the pads back out, smear some Copperslip on the back of the pads (the surface that touches the pistons), and it will stop it completely.....not too much mind, just a butter thin smear....let us know how that goes...good luck, Del.
I've got a Pan European 1100P that just failed an MOT due to binding front brakes after being laid up for over a year. As you suggested in your opening statement, as a reletivley new biker, I was also a little afraid of 'messing' with the brakes due to them being a major safety component. I found your video essential in getting my bike serviced and back on the road, so i'de like to extend a personal thanks for your informative and educational video guide!
Thats great to hear you made good use if it mate, its all to help us save a few pennies for beer and tyres....plus we can keep our bikes safe and stay out playing longer... keep safe this winter, take care. Del.
over 5 years since you made this video and it makes it still makes it's service!
This got on my soon to-do list :)
Thanks!
Between this video and the video on brake pads I've just swapped the front pads on the Daytona 👍🏻 nice to watch the videos and jump in with the confidence of seeing it done. NC23 project bike also on the go, total strip down and rebuild of the bike, so huge appreciation to Del and Penny for the time and effort that goes into all of this 🙂
Thanks Tony, thats great news, we're really glad you can use the videos to help you out. good luck with the Baby Blade, what a wonderful bike to restore, not many left now... Keep at it buddy, and take care.. Del.
My only reservation after such a well explained and demonstrated video would be that I would have liked to have seen you pump the brakes and then lift the front and see if it binds
Hi buddy, yes it is...exactly the same, pistons go in and out, get jammed up with road crud, and need cleaning off.... so one pistone or 8... itys the same reasoning... you will notice an improvment afterwards... let me know how you get on, and well done for getting two wheels mobile... a ped is better than a car dude,,,ride safe.. Del.
I've just done this with my Rf900 and its improved the brakes 100%. From no initial bite and no real power at all, to now working as well, and that just washing one calliper that did seem to heat up the disk!
Great video inspires confidence for all like me who thought brakes were too risky to mess with. I followed your instructions to free both front calipers which now work a treat, and something as an all year round rider I'll be doing more often. Last year failed my MOT 'cos of this and it cost £120 , not anymore. Cheers.
Bloody hell, thats daylight robbery David....but i guess they lunch out on the fact that "its brakes, and brakes is important".... glad to hear you're taking it on for yerself now.. nice one matey... thanks for watching...and good luck with it... Del.
Hey thank matey, i appreciate you taking the time ot comment here....the video seems to have helped out loads of riders this time of year with getting their bikes ready for the new season....glad you liked the alun key trick, just makes it quicker i guess..lol.. take care mate and ride safe.. Del.
Nice one Cameron, I'll take you up on that offer ... there's nothing better than a beer and a yarn with a kindred spirit! Take care, mate, and ride safe, Del
Yes mate, exactly that, the salt and moisture will have crusted them up, so drop the calipers off the legs, take the pads out and give them a good thorough clean and fettle....if that fails, you may need to strip them and put some new seals in, i have a couple of how to videos if you're stuck... good luck matey.. Del.
Excellent. I am not great with tools but, as far as cleaning and performing preventative maintenance like this, watching this video, as its step by step even I could do it and will do on my next bike.
I wish I had known this when I used to ride my bike through rain, snow and ice, I could always tell the brakes were being impacted and shops only wanted me to buy new calipers when I knew it wasn't needed.
Absolute credit to you for sharing and helping keep others safe and do some basics on our own bikes! I owe you one of those 86,000 types of coffess and a squashed cheese and tomato roll, I mean PA-NI-NI lol when we meet some time.
Ha ha, ill have a panini..but id rather have a Bacon sarnie any day..lol
Thanks for your kind comments buddy, im glad the videos have helped you out,.. and good on you for getting stuck in.! ride safe fellah, and enjoy the summer.. Del .
That is so kind, thank you for those kind comments, getting a bike to a state where you are really confident with it and happy with its condition is a bind with every new ride you own....but once its done you can enjoy it in peace. .. im glad you have got it sorted out, if tyou get stuck then feel free to ask, im happy to help with what ever i can.... take care.. Del.
Thank you kindly my friend, it's great to have your support, it's been quite inspirational how people have taken to dealing with their own brakes, they are not mechanically complex or difficult to work on, just a serious component being as they stop you embedding yourself in the van you are following, but that's no reason to fear them, get stuck in, let me know if you need any help, cheers, Del
Ha ha, thats so kind, thank you.... i guess its down t being spotted by the Descovery channel guys, and with millions of tubers out there, its a tall order even getting seen... i do it to save my biking buddies a few shekles...and entertain those who like to watch... i really appreciate the support... thanks again.. Del.
Thanks for the video. I jumped away to set about scrubbing, when I got them back on pulled the break lever to have it hit the bar thought I'd screwed up. Came back in to watch the end of the video - that helped!
Just wanted to say thanks for the time and effort you put into these videos.
I probably fit the description of the folks you mentioned in the video, I'm a young penniless student and bought my first motorbike earlier on this year.
I paid about £300 for a mechanic to replace the rear tyre, oil and filter, and to fix a binding front brake. I discovered today that the binding brake has returned, and your videos have given me the confidence to try rectify the problem myself. Thanks man!
To do this...
Garage: Charges for me are roughly around £150 - £200 to replace the FRONT pads (ONLY) and clean the calipers; Yeah jobs a good one, but you've spent far more money and learnt nothing.
Yourself: Costs under £80 and you've learnt a new skill; You can now maintain your bike better.
Hi mate, thanks for watching, the copper grease if you choose to use it is between the pad back and piston face to absorb the high frequency micro vibration that leads to squealing, usually I don't bother unless they squeak, then I do!
Hi Del. I have had problems with our 2016 FJR's front brakes binding on due to road salt. I'm not that confident about doing maintenance other than oil changes, however watching you clean your caliper and pads makes me think that I should be doing this instead of paying our dealer to do it. Many thanks for the excellent work here. Ride safe.
Hi Paul.. im glad the video could give you some confidence, good luck with it, once its done you'll feel so happy that you saved all that money on what is just house keeping... thanks for wathcing and good luck.. Del.
Thanks Del.
just did a inspection and clean of my front brake pads and calipers. Cleaned her up reaaaal good and what a difference it's made. Front braking is soo responsive now, gotta make sure i don't lock up!
You sir, are exactly the reason i make the videos, and im really glad it helped you out, please let me know if there is anything you get stuck with, and ill try to help... good luck, and well done for getting stuck in yourself... cheers Del.
Many thanks. Very comprehensive. My bike has been off the road for a while and the brakes need freeing up. I now feel confident to give it a go. Thanks also for the bobbins tip.
Martin Cameron Good luck Marin, glad hte video can help you mate... get stuck in aye... take care. Del.
Just to say a big thank you. Your video has given me the confidence to do this job myself. I was only planning on replacing worn brake pads, front and rear, on my motorbike, but now I'll get some cleaning done too. Much appreciated mate.
Good man Tom, it aint hard is it?, and good brakes save your life, while keeping them good yourself saves you money...the pads last longer and the discs too in the long run.... well done sir, once the spin the bobbins you'll notice it will be a lot better.... if not, you may have caliper issues, check out the full rebuild video if you need to, its a bit more involved, but that will guarantee them to be as good as they were the day it rolled off the line.... well done again mate... Del.
Ha ha, thanks for the shout mate....i would imagine they were hoping you would book it in for a brake rerurb, glad you got it sorted and well done on getting stuck in yourself....now you know something you didn't, and can pass it on to others... take care mate and thanks for watching... Del.
Well I got round to cleaning my callipers this afternoon, it was well worth the effort, each front calliper had a piston that was hardly moving, so cleaned them out and freed up all the pistons, and god what I difference it has made, I did the fluid change a couple off weeks ago, and was surprised the lever did not feel a bit farmer after doing that, well now it feels much better who knew a bit of cleaning could have such a big affect :) keep up the good work mate.
You're most welcome Bruce, its just plain old house keeping, and as you'll see, it will make them work better too, and that HAS to be a good thing... ride safe chap, cheers, Del.
Thanks Jester, you are very kind, im glad it worked for you, and happy to hear you like the videos, got to share the stuff we know aye... cheers, Del.
Thanks mate, you are very kind, its usually simple stuff and its important to spread such knowledge among ourselves... i appreciate youe kind comments and support... take care, Del.
Thanks alot, I did and was keen to do all what you done in the video, just didn't know if it was correct or if there was a better way - now I can trust you're experience to give me that bit extra confidence when doing maintenance.....
I find myself saving a small fortune in not having to pay a man. lol
Excellent videos :-) been a biker for years but always been worried about doing stuff myself and always left it to my garage, but after watching some of your videos I'm going to try a few bits for myself.
Time to stop neglecting my Fazer.
Thanks for the vids :-)
Hi Stuart, good on you mate, it makes you feel epic when you do a job you previously didnt venture into....and often it expands your biking enjoyment and helps keep you safe on the road....not to mention lkeeps your sheckels in your pocket..and thats ALL good.... lol.. take care buddy, and go get stuck in... Del.
Hello there, thank you for your kind message, it makes me very happy when a rider has been able to make proper use of the video, and gain some benefit from them... it will have also made you a little more aware of your bike and in touch with its constantly changing condition.. and thus in turn, keep yourself safer... thanks again for taking the time to write such a nice comment.. take care and ride safe.. Del.
I did your trick with the flotating disks and helped me alot, my brake flotating disks were blocked and don´t move... Thank you!!
I recently purchased another motorbike and you inspired me to start to care for my own bikes. My new bike is all clean brakes and all and so is my R1
you are very welcome kind sir, its a pleasure to konw that it found a happy user.. thansk for watching buddy, and ride safe... Del.
Even though your pads are not sided, you should still keep track of which side they came out of for three reasons.
1)The pads will wear to match the side of the rotor they came off of. If the rotor is worn differently on one side vs the other, you will have reduced braking ability until they wear down to match again.
2) If one pad is wearing faster than the other, it can be an indication of a frozen piston and it will be something you want to take care of right away.
3) If your pistons aren't frozen (or you're just to lazy to fix the problem) knowing which side is wearing faster will allow you to swap sizes and extend your pad life.
Firstly, I have now subscribed becauase that was actually far superior teaching than so many other videos online! Secondly, thank you for correctly showing me how to use my allen key's at 06:20, what a master!
Nice to geta uk vid. Good work pal. Tyre tarmac interface has made my day. Thankyou.
Cheers Phil, Glad you liked it mate.. take care.
Honestly pal just stumbled upon your channel. So glad I did!
You are a bike jedi my friend.
Brilliant as always Del - im finally educated on the world of brakes, no more concern or anxiety. Cheers
Thanks for this video Delboy, I was just about to ask you how to do a quick caliper clean because my brakes had been sticky since winter's end. No need, everything's in here. Out to the garage now, thanks again.
Great video mate, only recently discovered your channel, definitely helping me to do a lot of the maintenance. Thanks for the information mate, very friendly delivery too.
Hi there mate, thanks for that kind comment... that's very nice of you! I'm glad you like the channel, we aim to please! Ride safe, Del
Great video and never hurts to be reminded if the simple things that need doing done mine over the last couple of days and yes they needed doing lol. 1250 gt bandit rider here so great to see the work you do on them. Great work
Steve, you clearly got away with that mate, glad you're ok now.. and you said it right, so many courses dont teach the right thing, they focus in teaching skills you dont really need ,and neglect the basics..its also a casualty of the modern world, everyone thinks that a bike is 'plug and play' these days, buy it new and neglect it till its time to take it in for 5k service..sadly is a mark of our times, a throw away society, i gave up ranting at the moon about it long ago...take care mate, Del.
. Learning everyday from your videos. To the point every time. Keep up the great work very very much appreciated. Man with a Bandit Cheers
Thanks Peter, a little knowledge goes a long way hah?, glad you can use the videos, thats why we load them, so thanks for your kind support.... take care, Del.
Cheers mate... sadly, it's a regular winter chore we all have to live with! But make a good job of it and your brakes will just like they were the day it left the factory! Ride safe, mate, and well done for riding in the winter! Del
Great explanation. I'm the same as you regarding the "Torque settings" on the calipers. I've learned to "feel" the pressure over the years. The pumping of the pads back out also applies to fitting new tyres. Same as you said, it happened to me...ONCE! lol. Cheers.
Thank you for all your videos on UA-cam, it helped me so much with proper maintenance of my bandit. Take care!
Hi captain, thanks for your kind comment mate, glad it can be of help to you, ride safe this winter aye... cheers, Del.
I like your style of making videos, i also learn a lot and hear a lot of new information thank you :)
Thanks Adam, thats really kind mate, im glad you like the videos and can learn a bit too.....take care buddy... cheers, Del.
@snocrushr Too right, and its the single most common cause of warping discs...hardly ever are they warped due to the rider being a track hero and overheating them with speed and hard use... its always neglect.. thanks ,mate.. Del.
@chidlowt Hi there. yes i do if they ever squeel, because that's all it's for, copper slip has a downside of collecting more dust and promoting the buildup of crud, and that crud builds up right against the piston faces and can cause accellerated corrision, this in the end leads to them needing rebuilding, so if you ever do use copper grease, use very little, just a tiny smear to damp the high freaquency vibration, and if they dont squeel, you dont need it, just keep them washed out
Good demonstration sir! Definitely could see how the binding could cause some issues! It's awesome that you ride throughout hte winter... New garage is looking good. Its funny how some of your terminology slightly differs form ours in the US. Ed from Wheeler Dealers, same with him. Here we would say, fixed, figured out, solved, but you guys often call that "sorted". I love it!
Hi Malcolm - sadly, if you've chewed a screw head out the only tool that will help you is a drill bit. Use one the same size as the shank of the screw, drill into the head till it pops off like a ring round the drill bit, then you can remove whatever was holding it on and extract the remaining stump with grips, etc., go careful as most things are screwed into alloy so don't drill too deep and bugger up the thread.. just enough to take the head of the screw off ...good luck, Del
As always...brill vids. On showing us all how to do it the easy way & for those who know not. Keep up the good work.. and ride safe!!
Thanks for another great Vid Del, it was only yesterday I watched your bobbin video again.
Due the knowledge you have been passing on you inspired me to take my full test. I have now sold my 125 and tonight picked up an SV 650, nice bike but has been neglected for the last few months, using the methods you have been passing on I am confident I can get it back on top form.
I hope the house move is almost complete, I know how long that can drag on for.
Keep up the good work.
10 years on, hows the motorcycling going mate? Just curious 🤔
Just taking the time to go through the rest of your braking series, help to create an all round understanding.
Thanks again Delboy, great vid. Just waiting for my paddock stand to arrive and I've been trying to get the front wheel off the ground in some shape or form for two weeks now. Needless to say the trolley jack is coming out when I get home from work! Thanks again and keep the vids coming.
Hi mate, yeah it sounds like you may have either pumped it out so far that its gone 'scew wiff', and needs to be straightened up and lined up with the bore.(it will never go in crooked no matter how much you force it).OR.you may have to take the piston out of the caliper all together and clean it all inside..sometimes dirt can build up behind it and it can wedge it out.have a watch of my later video on how to rebuild a caliper, its all there in detail and very easy. let me know if you get stuck.
No,brake cleaner is perfectly safe for use on brakes,but as it is a solvent then used directly on the rubber constantly it could lead to a little perishing..but used sparingly now and again it's absolutely fine... Thanks for watching, Cheers, Del
this was an eye opening. I have zero knowledge and mechanical skills but this vid shows that isn't rocket science. Thanks, Moon.
+Joao Ribeiro Hi Joao, it's simple maintenance procedure and can keep your brakes healthy and safe on the road... glad you enjoyed !
I love Britishisms. Made grubby brake cleaning more enjoyable. "When you do 'em up, don't lean on it. Get your brakes sorted." Thanks!!
Eric Effert Ha ha, wasnt even aware i was doing it.. its just my drivvel...how mamny versions of English must there be now aye..?.. take care and thanks for watching..Del
Well done, buddy for getting stuck in, keeping them washed out and tip top will actually make them last longer as well as work better as you've seen ... and squeaks LOL! Cheers, Del
@ilaku Ha ha, why thankyou kind sir, you are too generous, its just a bit of winter house keeping, nothing special... but im glad it helped you, and thanks for subscribing too, i really appreciate the support. Ride fast... Del.
Wow, Thanks, Del. I'm gonna have to move my bed into the garage to get all this stuff done. This is something I've never seen anyone else mention. Good tip. thanks again. Can't wait to get the new house with a working garage. My current garage is too small and I have a 66 Impala rag top that needs restoring in there but it's going away soon. I do all my work in the driveway under a pop up tent, lol.
A '66 Impala rag top... I hate you already lol! What a beautiful car... some years back, Penny & I had a '67 Coronet R/T and had to admit defeat in the end with the cost of fuel... we couldn't enjoy it anymore... then it makes me cry to think what we sold it for compared to what they are worth now! Thanks for watching buddy, Del
Moonfleet41 Yeah, it was my mom's car. she absolutely loved it. She asked me to take it when she couldn't drive anymore. I drove it for a while then retired it to the garage. A neighbor saw it one day and talked me into restoring it. We started, he moved and I couldn't devote much time at all to it due to family and work. I haven't done anything to it for about 4 years now. I have accumulated a ton of parts and it's just taken over the whole garage. My wife knows me better then anyone and she helped me look at it realistically rather then sentimentally. It will kill me to sell it but it has to be done. The only bright spot is I get to move my bike out of the Cycleshell and back into the garage.
gene arguelles
Oh, and thank you for the great vids.
Delboy you have so much skill and knowledge.
You are a blessing of a handyman. Thanks for this quick demo
@jimbo80982 Ayup Jimbo, yes indeed, many people insist on greasing the back of the pads, most seem to do it for a numbner if incorrect reasons such as the ones you say... but the precise reason for greasing the pad back is to prevent squeel...the grease absorbs and eliminates the high frequency vibration that manifests as a squeek or squeel.... on the down side, it also collects dust and adds to the crud that seizes calipers..mine have never needed it, so i dont use it.
Hi Greg... Thanks buddy, you are very kind... glad you like it...cheers, Del.
Hi Matt. im glad it worked out for you mate, well done on getting it sorted yourself, you are now a little better at keeping your bike safe than you were before ...and thats always good... take care, ride safe, and all the best for the new year.. Del.
@boredofitall No they can be a bit stiff sometimes, specially on the older bikes.. but a well freed up caliper working properly shouldnt be too hard to force the piston back in... bigger pistons can be stiffer, so if you have twin pots rather than four.. then maybe thats it.. sliding calipers also dont need them to be as mobile as fixed ones too, just different setup thats all Sal.
@turbocobra Why thanks Gary, you are too kind sir, riding in winter makes you a much better rider all year round and with todays economy, and heavy traffic, its the only way to travel. I too have a fascination with 'Pan-English', its a world langauge now, and the colloquialisms that go with it make it a rich subject..in both our countries we have huge differnece from north to south, "Sorted" is a southern/London thing, but it kind of spreads, bit like Y'all. take care buddy. Del.
Hi matey, thank you kindly for your comments, the camera work is all down to clever Penny Pitstop, she knows what to shoot.. i just do the dirty bit..lol.. thanks for watching, and take care. Del.
well done buddy, its good housekeeping, and will prevent more expensive repairs later....cheers, Del.
Sounds like fuel starvation mate...check if the carbs are getting enough fuel..(take the hose off the carb end, poke it in a jam jar and twist it onto reserve)....should run a free drain of petrol with no dribbling.....is the tank breather blocked...if its not delivering from the tank, is the filter blocked in the tap...is the fuel line trapped of kinked....there are lots of things to check, but its all just a case of elimination mate...good luck, Del.
been watching back a lot of videos lately and they are all great! I reckon Damage muse be the most wrongly judged bike ever. people will look at it think "wicked" but they won't think it's one of the most well maintained suzuki's in the country! Thanks a lot for what you do!