HOME 1.10 BRAKES FLUID INSPECTION sm01712 Direct contact of D.O.T. 4 brake fluid with eyes can cause irritation. Avoid eye contact. In case of eye contact flush with large amounts of water and get medical attention. Swallowing large amounts of D.O.T. 4 brake fluid can cause digestive discomfort. If swallowed, obtain medical atten- tion. Use in well ventilated area. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. (00240a) D.O.T. 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 per- formed. Failure to comply can result in cosmetic damage. (00239b) Figure 1-29.
Rear Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir (typical) Do not allow dirt or debris to enter the master cylinder reservoir. Dirt or debris in the reservoir can cause improper operation and equipment damage. (00205c) sm01713 1. See Figure 1-29 . Check level in rear brake master cylinder reservoir. Level should be 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) below the gasket surface. a. Remove cooling system side cover fastener on underside of side cover. b. Swing out lower section and lift to unhook from top of assembly. c. View fluid level through sight window at rear of reservoir. NOTE To prevent dirt from entering the master cylinder reservoir, thoroughly clean the cover before removal. 2. See Figure 1-31 .
Check level in front brake master cylinder reservoir. Level should be at 5 mm (1/5 in.) below the gasket surface. Figure 1-30. Rear Brake Fluid Reservoir Sight Gauge (reservoir removed from motorcycle) (typical) 3. Install gaskets and covers.Tighten reservoir cover screws to 0.8-1.2 Nm (7-11 in-lbs ). After repairing the brake system, test brakes at low speed. If brakes are not operating properly, testing at high speeds can cause loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. (00289a) 4. Front brake hand lever and rear brake foot pedal must have a firm feel when applied. If not, bleed system using only D.O.T. 4 BRAKE FLUID. See 1.12 BLEEDING BRAKES . 2009 VRSC Service:
Maintenance 1-25