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INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
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06/10/2024

2025 Indian Scout Brake System Inspection and Maintenance

Required Tools and Supplies

  • 10mm Socket
  • Phillips Socket
  • Phillips Screwdriver
  • Flathead Screwdriver
  • Ratchet
  • Torque Wrench
  • Brake Rotor Measurement Tool
  • Mirror 
  • Flashlight
  • All-Purpose Grease
  • Eye Protection
  • Nitrile Gloves
  • Shop Rags

To learn more about tools, read the Tools and Fasteners Guide. Always wear safety glasses and nitrile gloves when servicing your Indian Motorcycle.

To inspect and maintain the brake system on your Indian Scout, follow these steps:

1. Park the motorcycle on a flat, level surface in the fully upright position. Note: Motorcycle on lift for visual purposes.

2. Position the handlebars so that the fluid reservoir is level. Wipe the fluid container and the area around the reservoir cover with a clean rag. Tip: A flashlight can be used to illuminate the reservoir in dark areas.

3. If the fluid level is low, inspect the brake pads. If the pads are not worn beyond the service limit, inspect the brake system for leaks.

4. To add fluid, remove the reservoir cover screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Remove the cover, diaphragm plate and diaphragm and set aside.

5. The fluid level should be above the minimum indicator mark next to the sight glass. Add the recommended brake fluid as needed. Do not overfill. Note: Brake fluid will damage painted surfaces and plastic parts. Always clean spilled brake fluid immediately with water and mild detergent. Dot 4 Brake Fluid is part number 2880016.

6. Reinstall the diaphragm, diaphragm plate, cover and screws. Note: If diaphragm is extended, return it to the neutral position.

7. Torque the fasteners to 13 in-lbs (1.5 Nm).

8. Wipe away any fluid spills. Check for signs of brake fluid leaks around hoses, fittings, reservoir and brake calipers. Check for deterioration of hoses.

9. Lubricate the front brake lever by unscrewing the bottom nut and screw to access the hinge point with a 10mm socket.

10. Remove the pivot pin with a flathead screwdriver, and pull the brake lever out.

11. Clean off any old grease or dirt from the pivot pin, and brake lever. 

12. Lubricate the pivot pin and brake lever hinge point with all-purpose grease. Also lubricate any time binding is evident.

13. Clean any old grease from the brake lever bracket, and lubricate with all-purpose grease.

14. Reinstall the brake lever and align the pin hole. 

15. Reinstall the pivot pin, and torque to 4-13 in-lbs (0.5-1.5 Nm).

16. Reinstall the nut, and torque to 44-62 in-lbs (5-7 Nm).

17. Clean any residual grease off the bike, and ensure proper operation of the brake lever.

18. Follow the brake line and inspect the connections at the front brake caliper for leaks. 

19. Inspect each front brake pad on both sides of the front disc or discs, as some models have more than one front disc.

20. When checking brake pad friction material thickness, check each brake caliper for dampness or stains from leaking or dried brake fluid. If inspection reveals signs of fluid leakage, do not operate the motorcycle. See your Indian Motorcycle Dealer for service.

21. Position an inspection mirror at the back side of the caliper to view the friction material.

22. Replace brake pads when the thinnest point of the friction material has worn to 1.0mm. Please see your dealer for this service.

23. Inspect the brake discs for nicks, scratches, cracks or other damage. 

24. Inspect the thickness of each brake disc at four or more locations around the disc. If any disc is worn to the minimum thickness which is 0.18 in (4.5 mm) at the thinnest point or if a disc is damaged, see your Indian Motorcycle Dealer for replacement.

25. Clean discs if minor squeaks develop due to dirt or dust.

26. Apply brake cleaner to a clean shop towel and wipe the discs. DO NOT allow brake cleaner to contact painted or plastic parts. Make sure to read all precautions on the label.

27. Repeat this process for the rear brake pads and discs.

28. Move to the rear fluid reservoir near the rear brake pedal on the right side of the bike, and check the level using the sight glass.

29. Wipe the fluid container, and the area around the reservoir cover with a clean shop rag.

30. If the fluid level is low, inspect the brake pads. If the pads are not worn beyond the service limit, inspect the brake system for leaks.

31. Remove the cover and diaphragm with a Phillips screwdriver. The fluid level should be above the minimum indicator mark on the reservoir sight glass.

32. Add the recommended brake fluid as needed. Do not overfill. Dot 4 Brake Fluid is part number 2880016.

33. Reinstall the cover and diaphragm. Note: If diaphragm is extended, return it to the neutral position.

34. Torque the cover screws to 13 in-lbs (1.5 Nm).

35. Wipe away any fluid spills. Check for signs of brake fluid leaks around hoses, fittings, reservoir and brake calipers. 

For more information, see your authorized Indian Motorcycle Dealer. Find a dealer near you with the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.

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