Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure


Information and questions on GL1800 Goldwings (2001-2017)
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rpflyer41
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Joined: Sun Nov 04, 2012 2:04 pm
Location: Pasadena, TX
Motorcycle: 2003 GL1800

Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by rpflyer41 »



I have a 2003 GL1800. I engage the rear brake pedal and it does not so any resistance. Can someone tell me where to start to diagnose the problem. Thanks. Randy


rpflyer41
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Joined: Sun Nov 04, 2012 2:04 pm
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Motorcycle: 2003 GL1800

Rear brake problems

Post by rpflyer41 »

I have a 2003 GL1800 and the rear brake goes limp when I engage it. What can I do to find the problem?
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Sidcar
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Re: Rear brake problems

Post by Sidcar »

Examine the master cylinder, brake lines and callipers for leaks.
If there is a leak repair replace whatever it is.
No leaks
Gently clamp off front brake. Pedal ok problem in front brake
Pedal the same clamp off rear brake. Pedal ok problem in rear brake.
Pedal still u/s master cylinder suspect.
Bleed brakes. If pedal ok air is probably getting in round m/c seals.
Strip and inspect m/ cyl would be a good idea.

Sid
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patbrandon1
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Re: Rear brake problems

Post by patbrandon1 »

rpflyer41 wrote: Sat Mar 03, 2018 2:19 pm I have a 2003 GL1800 and the rear brake goes limp when I engage it. What can I do to find the problem?
Could you please explain what you mean by "limp"? I am kinda old and maybe not up to newer terminalogy.
DaveO430
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Re: Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by DaveO430 »

Ist look at the rear brake reservoir behind the right engine cover, does it have fluid in it?
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Steve F
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Re: Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by Steve F »

Check fluid level, if low then start looking for signs of leaks and report back. Low fluid level can be a sign of significantly worn pads. Replace them if that's the case, but you said you have no "pedal" which probably means you'll have a leak somewhere. I'll see if I can post a diagram of the GL brakes since they're a "linked" system which can complicate diagnosis and proper repair.


If you look at the diagram, you'll notice the rear master cylinder is also connected to the front calipers through a delay valve and a secondary master cylinder. Look for leakage around these areas too. Whatever you find wrong, you'll most likely need to bleed the system and that involves the secondary master cylinder, and the front-left caliper. QUESTION: Have you had the secondary master RECALL done by HONDA?
Regards, Steve F.
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MikeB
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Re: Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by MikeB »

Has the brake fluid ever been replaced? If not, that may be all you need to do. Replace the fluid. The fluid should be replaced every two years.

To replace the fluid, I do not mean to remove the fluid from the reservoirs and simply pour in new fluid. You would not believe how many people think that removing fluid from the reservoir and then pouring in new fluid is proper procedure.

You need to bleed the fluid through the system from all brake reservoirs through their respective calipers. You need to follow the procedure in the service manual to achieve the desired result.
MikeB
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Re: Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by GoldWingrGreg »

Inspect the bike for any brake fluid leaks. If any are seen, repair those first. Then bleed the system, and recheck for leaks. If you still have a low peddle, you may have a failing m/c.
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WingAdmin
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Re: Rear brake problems

Post by WingAdmin »

When you say it goes limp - do you get any pressure at all? i.e. do you press the pedal and it goes right down to the stop, or do you get some pressure, and then it bleeds off as you hold the pedal down? If you pump it a few times, do you then get pressure?
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Wingsconsin
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Re: Rear Brake Pedal has no pressure

Post by Wingsconsin »

Have you had the recall done yet ?
There is a recall for GL1800's that updates the rear system -
If not n-- Call a local dealer and get it in..if YES- they did something wrong


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