Tripmatic Brake System
Many owners have experienced problems with this brake system. The majority of these are caused by incorrect setting and bleeding of the system from the outset. This self adjusting system is far superior to the previous system and when set up correctly will work much more efficiently.
Before bleeding the system make sure that when the brake pedal is in the off position no pressure is applied to the Master Cylinder lever. Adjust the connecting rod if necessary.
Below is a guide to bleeding the system from new or after overhauling the master cylinder or caliper. You are reminded that this process should be carried out by expert personnel wearing protective clothing. Warning - brake fluid is extremely toxic and corrosive.
Tips on the Tripmatic bleeding process.
1. Remove the top of the Master Cylinder by unscrewing the 4 bolts (1). Be careful not to damage the rubber gasket when lifting the top.
2. Fill the reservoir with a reputable brand Dot 4 or Dot 5 brake fluid.
3. Unscrew the rear screw (2) to allow the air to escape from the Master Cylinder. Tighten the screw when no more air
bubbles are visible.
4. Top up the reservoir with fluid if necessary.
5. Pump the Master Cylinder lever very slowly 4-5 times to allow the air to escape from the Master Cylinder. You will see air bubbles rising from the reservoir.
6. Unscrew the left bleed screw (3) of the rear caliper.
a) Press the brake pedal very slowly to its maximum distance and hold.
b) Tighten the bleed screw on the caliper.
c) Release the brake pedal.
d) Top up the reservoir with brake fluid.
7. Repeat action No. 6 until all the air has escaped through the bleed screw in the caliper.
8. Repeat actions Nos. 6 & 7 with the right bleed screw (4) on the opposite caliper half.
9. Fill up the reservoir with brake fluid.
10. Position the gasket carefully (6).
11. Position the top and screw the 4 bolts (1) holding the top.
12. Pump the brake pedal 15-20 times to its maximum travel distance.
13. To ensure the brake system is perfectly bled, we advise the following:
A) Unscrew the left bleed screw (3) of the caliper.
B) Press the brake pedal very slowly paying attention to see if any air bubbles are coming out of the bleed screw.
C) When only brake fluid is escaping from the bleed screw, tighten the bleed screw, making sure the fibre washer is seated correctly, before releasing the brake pedal.
D) Release the brake pedal.
E) Repeat process A,B,C & D with the opposite caliper half.
14. If necessary, top up the master cylinder reservoir.
15. Clean any spillage that may have occurred.
CONGRATULATIONS
PROCESS COMPLETED
The above is a guide only and should be carried out by qualified personnel. The braking system is the most important part of the machine and you should not leave anything to chance. If in doubt - seek advice.
