Thread: Leaky Hayes Hydraulic Brake?

My front Hayes Hydraulic brake is leaking where the line meets the lever. Anyone else ever have this problem? What was the fix?

Also, when I squeeze the lever, the pads don't grab the rotor. So it looks like I've already lost enough fluid for the brake to work.

With some googling, one suggestion I found was that I should bleed the system, trim the line, and refill. Although the line does not appear to be damaged where it meets the lever. Does this sound right? I'm a hydraulic brake jong - should I bring it into the shop?

Originally posted by spanky
I'm a hydraulic brake jong - should I bring it into the shop?

Yes. Bleeding brakes isn't the easiest thing in the world when you don't know what you're doing. Either have someone show you how, or take it in. Plus, having fluid leak where it is seems kinda weird. Bottom line, take it in.

Bring it to a shop. It takes half the fun out of it when you don't know if you can count on your brakes. Of course, it does add a new dimension but...

Let a shop deal with it.

Best case you just need the hose end cut, a new crush washer installed and a bleed.


Woste case you have broken something in the lever, brake fluid has contaminated the pads, and you still need the bleed.

Thanks for the advice all. I took it into the shop on Saturday. The line was kinked. Replaced the line and pads. Front brake works again.

I've had this problem twice w/ my hydraulic brakes. Both times were after a crash and my fork got twisted to far around. The line gets cracked very easily where it slips over the male receptacle cartridge. Like one of the other guy mentioned, you just needed to slip on a new crush washer and cut a little off the line and bleed the brakes. Bleeding the brakes is only hard the first time. If you're running hydros I'd learn how to do it or have rich parents if you want to take it to the shop every time for a 15 minute fix.