Expert: Collin Bradham - 10/5/2006

Question
Collin, I have a 97 Wing with 28k miles (yes I am ashamed for the mileage)with 2 different problems.
#1 When the bike is exposed to moisture or rain the digital dash is blank. When it dryes out or gets warm it comes back on. Suggestions?
#2 Foot brake. I have rode about 1000 miles this year and recently started another ride. I was checking it over and noticed my foot brake was not working. It just presses all the way down.
3 years ago I replaced the pads, front and rear and they are still fine. I bled the brakes, front caliper and rear...it was a little better. So I let it sit another day and went back, and the pedal went all the way back down again. I re-bled again and the results were the same. With the bike up on stands it will slow down the front and rear wheels...but with very little pedal. I spoke with 3 different "wing" dealers and all 3 said they have never sold a master cylinder or a rebuild kit and really offered no advice except "bring it in and we can fix it." (the old bend over routine)The master cylinder looks like a bear to remove without removing the exhaust on the right side. But I am not sure that I have a problem with it. When I bled the master cylinder it appears to have more than enough pressure.  During my non-riding times, the bike is cranked and run, serviced regular, and check all the controls before I move it or while I am letting it idle. Suggestions again ?
Thanks Jerry

Answer
U have a seal leak in the dash allowing moisture to get in.  Find the seal and replace or repair.

Brakes r a bitch.  Sounds like something is clogging the caliper, remove it and try to clean.  Without the bike it's very hard to answer this question.  Good luck!