How to Bleed and Maintain Your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes

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Maintaining your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes is crucial to ensuring that your bike performs at its best, especially when it comes to braking efficiency. This guide will walk you through the proper techniques for bleeding and maintaining the Ekar AFS Disc Brakes to keep your bike stopping with optimal precision. With regular maintenance and proper care, you can ensure that your braking system works reliably, whether you’re riding through rough trails or tackling steep descents.

Tools Required

  • Campagnolo Ekar hydraulic brake fluid
  • 7mm and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Campagnolo brake bleed kit [paid link]
  • Bleed block or spacer
  • Clean rags
  • Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
  • Syringe (included in the Campagnolo brake bleed kit [paid link])
  • Brake fluid reservoir cap
  • Protective gloves

Why Bleeding Is Important for Your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes

Bleeding is a critical maintenance step for hydraulic disc brakes, like the Campagnolo Ekar AFS, as it removes air bubbles from the brake lines, which can cause spongy or unresponsive brakes. Over time, air and moisture can enter the brake system, either due to seal wear or exposure to air during brake pad changes, resulting in poor brake performance. Regularly bleeding the brakes ensures consistent braking power and responsiveness, extending the lifespan of your brake components.

How to Bleed Your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes

Before you begin the bleeding process, make sure your bike is stable and secure. It is also advisable to perform this task in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling brake fluid fumes.

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Remove the wheel from the bike to expose the brake rotor.
  2. Insert the bleed block or spacer into the brake caliper to prevent the pistons from pushing out during the bleed process.
  3. Position the bike so that the brake lever is easily accessible and the caliper is in a comfortable position to work on.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Fluid Reservoir Cap

  1. Using a 7mm Allen wrench [paid link], unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap on the brake lever.
  2. Carefully wipe off any excess brake fluid around the cap area with a clean rag to avoid contaminating other parts.

Step 3: Attach the Syringe

  1. Attach the syringe filled with Campagnolo Ekar hydraulic brake fluid to the brake lever’s bleed port.
  2. Attach the other end of the syringe to the caliper’s bleed port using the appropriate hose.

Step 4: Begin the Bleed Process

  1. Gently squeeze the syringe to push brake fluid into the system. As you do so, watch for bubbles in the fluid.
  2. Once the fluid begins to flow smoothly with no bubbles, close the bleed valve on the caliper and stop the fluid flow.
  3. Slowly pull the brake lever to expel any air that may be trapped in the brake lever or hose.

Step 5: Check Brake Feel

  1. After performing the bleed, check the brake lever feel. If it feels firm and there are no air bubbles, the system is properly bled.
  2. If the lever feels spongy, repeat the bleed procedure until you achieve a firm lever feel.

Step 6: Reassemble the Brake System

  1. Once you are satisfied with the brake lever feel, remove the syringe and close the bleed port on the caliper with the appropriate tool.
  2. Reinstall the brake fluid reservoir cap, ensuring that it is tightly sealed to prevent any leaks.
  3. Wipe off any excess brake fluid from the brake lever, caliper, and surrounding areas using a clean rag.
  4. Reinstall the wheel on the bike and check the rotor clearance.

Step 7: Test Ride

Before heading out on your ride, test the brakes by giving them a few firm squeezes to ensure they engage smoothly. Conduct a short test ride in a safe environment to ensure that the brakes are functioning properly. Make sure to check for any fluid leaks around the brake system during the ride.

How to Maintain Your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes

Maintaining your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes involves more than just bleeding the brakes. Regular cleaning, inspection, and adjustment are essential for keeping your braking system in top condition. Below are some important steps for ongoing maintenance:

1. Regular Cleaning

  • After every ride, particularly in wet or muddy conditions, clean your brakes thoroughly. Use isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag to wipe down the brake pads, rotor, and caliper.
  • Avoid using any abrasive materials that could damage the components.
  • Keep an eye on the brake rotor surface for any debris that may cause uneven braking or noise.

2. Check Brake Pad Wear

  • Inspect the brake pads regularly for wear. If they are worn down to their minimum thickness, it is time to replace them. Worn brake pads can significantly reduce braking efficiency and increase rotor wear.
  • Replace the pads if they are contaminated with oil or other substances that affect braking performance.

3. Inspect Brake Fluid Levels

  • Check the brake fluid levels in the reservoir and top them up if necessary. If you notice a drop in fluid levels without a visible leak, it may indicate air in the system or that the pads are worn down, requiring adjustment.

4. Rotor Inspection and Alignment

  • Regularly check the brake rotor for warping, cracks, or excessive wear. If the rotor is damaged, replace it immediately to prevent poor braking performance.
  • Ensure the rotor is properly aligned to avoid rubbing or uneven braking. If necessary, adjust the caliper alignment using the mounting bolts.

5. Tighten Brake Mounting Bolts

  • Check the tightness of all brake mounting bolts, including those securing the caliper to the frame or fork. Loose bolts can cause poor brake performance or component damage.

6. Store Your Bike Properly

  • Store your bike in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture from causing brake fluid degradation or rust on the components.
  • Avoid keeping your bike exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can affect the integrity of the brake fluid and seals.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes is essential for ensuring optimal braking performance and safety. By following the proper bleeding procedures and performing routine maintenance tasks, you can extend the lifespan of your braking system and enjoy consistent, reliable stopping power. Remember to keep an eye on brake fluid levels, inspect pads and rotors, and clean the components to maintain top performance. With a little care and attention, your Campagnolo Ekar AFS Disc Brakes will serve you well on every ride.