Mountain Biking - disc brake maintenance turned into a nightmare

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krronos
05-19-09, 05:43 AM
So after owning a bike with really powerless and squealy rear brake for a year I finally decided to look into the matter yesterday. Turned out the rotor and pads were covered in oil. Without looking at instructions I cleaned the pads and the rotor. The brake went from really bad to useless. Doesn't bother me that much really as I use front brake only.

IDK why I posted this, heads up maybe. In a few years we'll all be laughing to this :thumb:

zupott
05-19-09, 07:26 AM
Isn't dangerous using only just the front brake? As for me I've tried once that when I use the front brake to stop the bicycle, it almost went to stumble forward and it really scared me.

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dminor
05-19-09, 07:27 AM
You posted it so that one of us would inevitably ask, "what did you use to clean them?" and set off a lively discussion ;).


Isn't dangerous using only just the front brake? As for me I've tried once that when I use the front brake to stop the bicycle, it almost went to stumble forward and it really scared me.Not really, if you remember two things: keep your weight back; and don't brake (or brake too hard) when cornering.

joetronic
05-19-09, 10:50 AM
yeah, the front brake does most of the braking anyway, when you brake properly. Never just slam them, ever, ever ,ever. Kinda like a car, even in emergencies, you should try to ease on, and ease off. Grabbing a big 'ol hand 'o lever will only lead to loss of control.

Anywho, what did you use to clean them? A degreaser? Only ever use soap and water to clean your pads, or just replace them. What kind of oil? Road crap, or was it hydro fluid? If it was fluid, you need to have them looked at, as you may have a leak.
krronos
05-19-09, 01:13 PM
Anywho, what did you use to clean them? A degreaser?
An LBS suggested I use a degreaser so I went with it. Of course I won't know if it harmed them in any way before I get the brake fixed (knowing me I'll probably buy a new bike before that happens :p) Anyway I think it was hydro fluid but I didn't see any evidence of leaking. I understand if there is a leak, the lever would be numb? The brakes are Shimano BR-M485 which I believe had some problems with oil residues.
joetronic
05-19-09, 02:53 PM
some shops recomend a degreaser for cleaning disk pads, but its a huge no no. Soap and water, or if they are that bad, get new pads. Its worth it, rather than not being able to stop.

I'd say take them to a shop, maybe a different one if you can, or the one your using have them look over the whole system for leaks. Sometimes a slow leak can develop, and you won't notice over time. just have it looked at.