brake bleed question

[backinthesaddle]

This might bring up the same thoughts as dino oil vs syn, but here goes. ZX6R with ABS. Per SM no difference bleeding brakes vs non ABS model. Just ABS bike lines are longer. I used one a vacuum pump, starting with the right caliper due to routing, and then the left, then finally the MC bleeder.

Pull the lever on the pump to build vacuum, loosen nipple, close nipple before fluid runs too low or pump runs out of vacuum, add fluid. Repeat until no bubbles.

After that I repeated bleeding by pumping the brake lever a few times, hold lever, loosen nipple, close nipple before fluid runs too low or lever reaches bar, add fluid. No bubbles observed.

Is it necessary to do the manual process after using the pump? I figured pump was most efficient way to remove most fluid and manual way was best to finish the job.

Thanks,
Greg

[Paul_E_D]

I'm not sure I understand what you're asking. Was there a mushy feel after the vacuum pump method? If not, then no need. But I usually have to do a few manual pumps to get a firm lever... hhaha.

[backinthesaddle]

I'm not sure I understand what you're asking. Was there a mushy feel after the vacuum pump method? If not, then no need. But I usually have to do a few manual pumps to get a firm lever... hhaha.

Oh hey, no there wasn't any mushy feel and no bubbles either. I just wasn't sure if it was necessary to do the old method when all done. Probably OCD, belt and suspenders thinking on my part.

[SwiftTone]

Not related but if you haven't already try speed bleeder valve installed on the caliper. Really love mine. I bled my whole system after rebuilding both front calipers in 10 min.

[backinthesaddle]

Not related but if you haven't already try speed bleeder valve installed on the caliper. Really love mine. I bled my whole system after rebuilding both front calipers in 10 min.

I haven't, so thanks for the tip!

[xrocket21]

To answer your question, I would do one traditional bleed after a vacuum bleed just to be sure.

[LuvDog]

I haven’t bothered with a manual bleed after the mityvac . So far I haven’t had any issues

[xrocket21]

I haven’t bothered with a manual bleed after the mityvac . So far I haven’t had any issues

I think it's definitely an extra step

[jasnmar]

Not related but if you haven't already try speed bleeder valve installed on the caliper. Really love mine. I bled my whole system after rebuilding both front calipers in 10 min.

Speed bleeders are amazing.
If I have to bleed the brakes on any vehicle, it gets these before I start the bleed process.

[butcher bergs]

I've always done a manual bleed after vacuum bleed mostly for peace of mind. The vac bleeders can and will pull air past the threads of the fitting and I make it a point to push even that smallest air bubble out.

[golden chicken]

[backinthesaddle]

Took a test ride today and so far so good. My first brake bleed. Figure after doing various car, bike and boat tasks time to man up and do my own brake bleed.

[Jim]

try speed bleeder

No

[backinthesaddle]

Did a test ride and all seems good. Thanks for the advice everyone.