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	WorkShop > Brake-Squeal

Disc Brake Squeal Fix. Free? (almost) Permanent? (we'll see).
by; "Moccasin" Mike
mcolquit@wrldnet.net

Even after my dealer replaced the squealey rear pads on my new LC1500,
the new ones learned to talk after only a few miles, so I decided to fix 'em myself.

I tried "DISC BRAKE QUIET" spray first. Absolutely no help whatsoever,
and after only a few miles the pads had grit and sand stuck all over them.
So, we take a new approach...


1. Remove the pads and clean 'em up. Simple to remove, just pop off the top cover,
   pull the retainer pins out
   (put a finger over the retainer springs as you remove the pins so they don't go flying),
   then slide the pads out the top.
2. Put ONE layer of duct tape on the rear of the pad,
   starting it just below the retainer pin holes in the top.
   Now, with a razor, trim off all excess tape from the edges of the pad, and re-install.
3. Drive the bike a few miles, and do a few HARD rear brake stops.
   Be careful here because your pedal may bottom out on you
   due to the cushioning effect of the tape
4. Remove the pads again, and with your razor or exacto knife,
   cut out the round piston impression on the tape (cut about an eighth inch larger)
5. Dab a rag in some nail polish remover, lacquer thinner, or acetone,
   and carefully remove any adhesive from the pad that is inside the circle that you removed.
6. Re-install the pads.
7. Enjoy your new quiet brakes!

The tape simply deadens the vibrations of the pad,
and does not change the original effectiveness of the braking system.

*NOTE* There are no shims on my pads. I don't know whether they came that way,
        or if the shop removed them.

P.S. - While you're playing with your brakes,
       open up the master cyl reservoir and draw off enough fluid
       to let an air bubble show in your level window.
       This will allow some expansion of the fluid when it gets hot,
       and hopefully ward off any unwanted pressure to your brakes on a long and/or hot ride.

       Moccasin

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