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Hydraulic disc brake sluggish issue: Bleeding and troubleshooting tips needed.

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Bjw1992

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
Hi, I'm hoping someone can help me!

I've had experience in dealing with mechanical disc brakes before but never hydraulic. I've looked at posts, YouTube vids etc but I don't know if I'm missing a trick or something.

My front brake is really sluggish, like lever comes all way to handle and no braking etc. I've tried to bleed it a couple of times, when looking at fluid coming out at the calliper there's no air bubbles, which I'm assuming is correct. I don't have a spacer for the brakes yet I've seen somewhere that cardboard is ok, so that's what I've been doing. Put everything back together and it's just the same.

Am am I missing anything??
 
#5 ·
Proper bleeding takes time. Bubbles can rise slowly from the bottom. I like to discon the caliper and have it hanging directly below the MC. Then you have to run the fluid through again and again. Tapping the caliper several times during the bleed push can dislodge any bubbles that may be trapped in the corners of the inside of the caliper. It takes time. You can't rush this procedure.
 
#6 ·
Honestly I made my own bleed kit using an old measuring cup, air line and large syringe from farm supply store. Bled them using same procedure as I would automotive brakes when using a forced bleeding system. Works flawless. Close system up after bleed, pump the levers rapidly for a few secs and let sit while I go take a piss and grab a beer. By the time I come back brakes are ready and never had a single issue requiring rebleed yet.

Sent from my Nokia Stupidphone using Tapatalk
 
#7 ·
Shimano made a significant improvement with the current SLX/etc. Get a front and after the 5 minute install you won't have to think about bleeding for the next 4 years. And you will have a lot more power once bedded.
 
#8 ·
As a noob myself ive discovered
Make sure there is no leakage anywhere. Bleeding does indeed take time. Make sure caliper is below the levers if possible. Tap the cables and calipers several times .Pump the brakes at that step at multiple angles. Make sure you have something that can pushback the pistons as well. A bleeding block is ideal but anything REALLY stiff is also useful.
Lastly..have plenty of brake fluid. If you have limited amounts you may be worried and conserve instead of bleeding properly.
Its frustrating as heck. But man the brakes are so sweet once set.
 
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