2009 R1200GSA Clutch Master Cylinder (I assume) needed
My clutch on my 2009 R1200GSA has failed. There is no pressure on the lever. If I pump the lever a number of times it builds up some pressure sufficient to get it into 1st gear so I can pull off but it soon loses all pressure again. If I peek into the reservoir on the handlebars while the lever is pulled in there is a very fine string of bubbles that comes up to the surface. I noticed a small 'wet spot' next to the reservoir so it may be leaking somewhere, this may however be a drip from the cap.
I assume the master cylinder needs to be replaced? Anyone offer advice? And what's the scoop on which fluid to use, I read that DOT 4 shouldn't be used?
Bubbles in the fluid means there is air in the system and bleeding it might help. It is almost exactly like the brake hydraulics.
However, before you replace the whole master cylinder, there are refurbishment kits to replace the parts that wear. Typically, there is an o-ring or two, a rubber piston-like thing, and perhaps the piston itself.
It could also be a small leak, or, if the clutch lever does not have free play the fluid cannot return to the reservoir and you cannot pump effectively. There must always be a mm or two of free play on the lever. I have also had the situation where a small piece of dirt blocks one of the two small holes at the bottom of the reservoir - a needle sorts that out.
As Charles mentioned, when was the last time the fluid was changed, should be at least once per annum? I speak under correction but Dot 4 is the one to use. Further comments in this regard will be appreciated.
As Charles mentioned, when was the last time the fluid was changed, should be at least once per annum? I speak under correction but Dot 4 is the one to use. Further comments in this regard will be appreciated.
There is a lot of info in Google's brain on this topic but there is strong advice to NOT use a DOT 3 or DOT 4 and ONLY the BMW recommended stuff called Vitamol V10 Hydraulic Clutch Mineral Oil. There is however some info that Magura Blue Blood Hydraulic Mineral Oil is the same stuff, available from a bicycle shop.
Just a quick thank you to Donford Motorrad in Stellies, I know they are extremely busy yet they accomodated me and fetched my bike from my work and fixed and serviced it and delivered it back to me within the same week. The clutch has been sorted and bike running sweet after a 40 000km service. Well done guys - keep up this great service!
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