front brakes

Hey guys. Got an 82 Seca 750. Pushed it into the garage to thaw a bit before starting to work on it and noticed that it rolls fine until I crank the handle bars to the left. Then it seems to lock up like the brakes are applied. I understand that the Master Cylinder is cable actuated. Could the cable be too short or could there be something else causing it? Thanks for any ideas.

 

Does it do it both when its running and not running?

 

Didn't do it when I had it running. Haven't ridden this year. Was gonna tear down the brakes anyway, was just stumped. Rolls easy both direction with wheel straight, proper pressure in wheel.

 

can you see the pads move when you turn the bars?

 

does the cable run through the right path as denoted in the manual

 

That's not it; and it has nothing to do with the bike running.

You've got one (or both) calipers hanging up. When you turn the wheel it moves laterally ever-so-slightly (taking up the lateral play in the bearing) and the rotor binds on the (hung) pads.

THIS IS VERY COMMON. So is finding original 30-year old brakes on an XJ.

YOUR BIKE IS TRYING TO TELL YOU THAT YOU NEED TO REBUILD THE FRONT BRAKES.

Caliper and master cylinder seals had a factory recommended lifespan of 2 years; brake lines, four years. Granted, that may be a bit conservative; but 30 years is way past any designed-in "margin of safety." Check your front brake lines; see what manufacture dates are embossed in them.

That being said: There is a TINY hole in the bottom of one of the "false drillways" in the bottom of the remote M/C's reservoir. Locate it, and ensure it's clear; it may "solve" your problem---

but I highly doubt it.

You need to rebuild your 30-year old front brakes, and soon (before one locks up on you, or you pop a line.)

Checked the rears yet? http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=15874.html

 

Yep, thanks.guys. Was gonna replace the pads and rebuild calipers anyway. Rear brake getting done too. Haven't looked at them yet, but I'm not taking any chances. New brakes and hoses before I do
anything else. Thanks again.

 

You might want to change out those wheel bearings also if you are getting that much play in them. On the sport bikes it can deffiantely contribute to front end wobble, and vibrations.

Ghost

 

"Normal" bearing play is enough to cause the condition, but I agree on new wheel bearings.

 

Planned on it while I have the wheel off anyway. Rear ones too. I suppose I should do the fork seals and steering bearings as well.

 

Replacing the Headset Bearings is a GREAT Handling Performance upgrade.

Get rid of the Ball Bearings, ... they're more trouble than worth.

Replace with Tapered Rollers.
Very nice.

(Use a 9" Line-up Tool to Knock-out the Races from their seats inside the Neck.)

 

I agree with replacing the bearings. Its not hard and then you'll know they are good to go. Mine didn't appear worn, but they were lacking grease-so I replaced them anyway.

Are your fork seals leaking? Or does it seem a little soft up front? If so then replace them. And new SS lines are a nice upgrade to your F brakes.

Congrats on your new bike, and here's to hoping we have an early spring this year!