'99 1100 RT brake lines leaking...

[Sweendog]

Oilhead gurus:

A couple days ago, I noticed my front brake was feeling a little soft, and at stops the handle would slowly work its way back to the handle if I kept pressure on the brake. I figured I'd have the mechanic check my brakes when I took it in for service (planned on in the next couple of weeks...); however, today I ran an errand at lunch, and the front brake was VERY mushy, and the handle behaved the same. I also saw some brake fluid drips on the left side of the front tire. I knew something was wrong, so drove right home to check it out.

 

There was brake fluid pooled at the tops of both front calipers, so I knew it was leaking from somewhere. After some clean-up of fluid from the lines, caplipers, and front of the engine case and fairings, I put clean paper towels behind the lines and gave the front brake a squeeze. -To my surprise, out from BOTH lines (the short flexible sections between the calipers and the metal lines) had rather pronounced pinhole leaks that were squirting little streams of brake fluid back on the bike. =(

 

Obviously I'll need to get those lines replaced, but I wanted to ask if this is a common issue, something that should have been changed due to age or mileage (49K now, 1999)? The previous owner had recently changed all pads, and replaced the rear rotor (rear brake seems solid for now) -could he have done something wrong that made the lines split?

 

Thanks for any advice!

[Sweendog]

Oh, one other thing... Since I'll be needing new lines (at least the short bits) should I:

 

1) Replace all lines, including rear?

2) Consider getting aftermarket lines? (I'm not one for pushing performance, if stock is fine, I'm find; however if better stuff can be had for minimally more $, I'll consider it.)

 

Thanks again!

[cruisin]

Based on my experience with my '98, I'd say the age had more to do with leaks than did the mileage. I put stainless steel (Galfer I think) lines on the '98 at around 100K when the line near the front lever began to leak. If it were mine, I'd just replace them all on the premise that if one or two have begun to leak, the others are probably not far from it. I'd also say get stainless aftermarket replacements. I think you will be a lot happier with them and they are not that much more expensive than OEMs.

[AndyS]

I wouldn't say it's a common thing, but those lines are ‘getting on’ a bit now.

Some of the problem may be down to how the lines have been handled when the callipers are removed. Sadly, some folk show no mechanical sympathy to those lines. They just twist and bend them like crazy, but the lines are relatively vulnerable parts and should be treated accordingly.

I have just fitted a set of Goodrich hoses to a ’97RT and the basic set up is very tidy. It has identical routing and a nice solid splitter block just like the OEM set up.

However, the first set I put on, the hose that goes from the frame down to the righthand fork leg was 40mm too short! These were from a kit specifically for an R1100RT.

I got a replacement hose set about 1 week later, and this time the hose was the correct length.

Anyhow, I would suggest you fit a complete replacement set for the peace of mind it will bring.

Andy.

 

[JonathanE]

Oh, one other thing... Since I'll be needing new lines (at least the short bits) should I:

 

1) Replace all lines, including rear?

2) Consider getting aftermarket lines? (I'm not one for pushing performance, if stock is fine, I'm find; however if better stuff can be had for minimally more $, I'll consider it.)

 

Thanks again!

 

1) Yup, replace them all. Kits provide all lines for considerably less than the cost of two or three lines.

2) Just like answer #1, "aftermarket" kits are much cheaper than buying individual lines from BMW. They are also much better quality than the original rubber lines. I am very happy with the quality and fit of my Speigler set of teflon lined braided stainless steel brake lines. The Spiegler kit includes everything you need except for hand tools and brake fluid. For all I know, Galfer sells the same sort of package.

[Sweendog]

Thanks all. It seems fairly unanimous on the 'go with the Spiegler' front. Given that the BMW parts (if I replace all 5 lines) costs more anyway, I guess I'll get some shiney new stainless hoses...

[OoPEZoO]

I know where you might be able to get a cheap pair of slightly used SS Galfer lines.......You have a PM

[AndyS]

I know where you might be able to get a cheap pair of slightly used SS Galfer lines.......You have a PM

 

Baaaa! I missed out again...first your signal minder and now brake lines. I must move nearer to Pennsylvania ;-)

Andy