By Danny Martin

Hey everybody that time again let’s learn how to fix something. This time we’re going to put new brakes on our 2000 thru 2007 Harley-Davidson. It is going to be so easy you’re going to wonder why do shops even charge for it. Personally, in my shop when you buy new tires I always tell people let’s put pads on it. I only charge them for the pads it’s so simple. The tools we are going to need are some 12 point sockets, a 3/8 drive millimeter 12 point a ¼ inch drive 12 point and a medium to large flathead screwdriver. The pads that I prefer to use are the Drag Specialties 1721-1365 for about $25. I use sintered material this is supposed to cut down on the dust. We don’t need a lift for this or anything so if you’re ready get your stuff in order and let’s go.

First, when I get ready to do brakes I tell everybody loosen up that ¼ inch 12 point that holds the pads inside the caliper. Do not completely remove it. Loosen it enough so that it’s easier to remove the complete bolt when you have the caliper in your hand. With the pads being loosened go ahead and take your 3/8 drive 10 mm and take the bolts out of the caliper removing it from the rotor before continuing to take out the old brake pad. Use your medium to large size screwdriver and basically pry it in there to squeeze open the pistons making more room for the pads with more material so they will easily go back over the rotor. Once you have that done take out the 2 smaller ¼ bolts. Pay attention to which way the pads come out, put them back in and put it all back together in reverse. If you have blue or even some red Loctite you can put a drop back onto the caliper bolt. Be sure to tighten the ¼ inch and 3/8 very firmly, snugly or whatever, once they are both back on the fork leg.

With one side being done let’s go over to the other side and do the exact same thing. If you have a Touring bike, once your pads are installed tightened and caliper returned to the fork leg remember to squeeze your brake lever a few times to reseat the pad on to the rotor or you’re going to have one hell of a wakening when you try to drive away. Well there you go I told you this was going to be easy. Once again if you have any questions or if you have something that you would like to see me cover please contact me at the magazine with your suggestions or complaints. I will do my best to address everything in the style you are becoming accustomed to with me. Thanks for playing in the Cat Box.

AMCAT