Bad ABS hydraulic unit/module 2007A, per Yamaha dealer

[Mad German]

I don't know if it's been discussed before or not, but can the entire ABS system be removed from the bike? Just run a line from the front MC to each front caliper up front and a line from the rear MC to the rear caliper. This is the first ABS bike I've had, so I'm curious. My previous bike, 2008 R1, had a setup like I described, and it stopped on a dime.

 

[Mihalis fjr]

I just found the Donal's thread:

https://www.fjrforum.com/forum//index.php/topic/161927-abs-unit-blocked-on-front-brake-circuit/

 

[fjrjonesing]

Just to say, that I had a similar failure of the ABS module on my 07. Started after a hard stop that activated the system, and after running the diagnostic, *repeated* bleedings, and a master cylinder kit, I took it into Yamaha. They bled and bled to no avail. The way the mechanic explained it, there's captive grunge from old fluid, and when the system activates and valves move to take control of braking, the ooze moves and check valves stick and clog. IN my case, it prevented fluid from moving from the rear reservoir, though the ABS block to the rear caliper= no rear brakes.

I bought this bike in 2013 with 9000 miles on it (i.e., it sat). It has 42k now.

It's a $1500 part that the mechanic said he would try to discount. I've been dealing with them for years. Looking in the classified section here and on eBay for a used one.

Lesson, of course, is to flush this system. When I bled, my thinking was a couple reservoir volumes would do it. Mechanic said 4 pints to be safe.


Jim in BR

 

[RossKean]

I think 4 pints is just a bit excessive! It does, however, pay to "exercise" the ABS from time to time. Either while riding or using a jumper and diag function. Procedure is on here somewhere...

 

[dcarver]

Me thinks ya'll need to live on a dirt road and exercise ABS at least weekly...

 

[audiowize]

I'm glad Ray was able to help you out. You might owe him a pack of those tiny cigars he likes.

 

[Super13]

When the loss of ABS means that you can still use your brakes but without antilock function, it is dangerous but not likely to kill you if have good control and instincts. If tha ABS failure results in complete loss of braking without warning, that becomes pretty serious. This is the first I have heard about a Gen II failure. I agree with HRZ that it needs to be reported.

My 2010 began showing the ABS warning light 5 years ago. Paid over $600 at the dealer for new sensors f&r. The light returned from time to time. How many years did I ride before ABS on motorcycles? Not worried.

 

[RugbyCanada]

My 2010 began showing the ABS warning light 5 years ago. Paid over $600 at the dealer for new sensors f&r. The light returned from time to time. How many years did I ride before ABS on motorcycles? Not worried.

Yea, me too, but it's not the loss of the ABS which is the problem, it the ABS failure that leads to rear/front or both brake failure. Mine left me with no rear but when forced locked up the rear and wouldn't let it release/drain. I just ran a direct line to the rear to bypass the ABS. works well but is way more sensitive to foot pressure so you really need to adjust back to your old school riding skills. PS. no warning light ever!

 

[torch]

I just ran a direct line to the rear to bypass the ABS. works well but is way more sensitive to foot pressure so you really need to adjust back to your old school riding skills.

On my previous Gen 1, I lowered the rear pedal by rotating the lever 1 tooth on the spline shaft. I found that made it less of an on/off switch -- much easier to modulate the rear when wearing riding boots.

 

[Sunnyorlando]

"Lesson, of course, is to flush this system. When I bled, my thinking was a couple reservoir volumes would do it. Mechanic said 4 pints to be safe."

Another lesson is to activate the ABS regularly to keep those from accumulating, and flush the system as mentioned. And you learn what it does. Do this is a safe area of course, not while on the road...

This applies to cars as well.

On a related note, for those who are not familiar with ABS behavior and sound, you might be caught off guard the day it actually activates and not realize what that 'issue' (pulsing) was. This is why familiarizing yourself with it is helpful. Again, this applies to cars as well. More than once I've heard the story from someone who said that took the car to the shop because it made a "strange noise when breaking" - which turned out to be the ABS had activated.