SRAM Level TL Brake Bleed service guide for beginners. Dual syringe bleeds rule! 💪, by ZoubTube on YouTube. 26 min 24 s.
- Video length
- 26 min 24 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Put on gloves and safety glasses. DOT fluid damages paint and irritates skin, so lay rags under the lever and caliper before you start.
Remove the wheel and brake pads. Fit the bleed block into the caliper so the pistons stay pushed back during the bleed.
Fill one syringe with fresh DOT 5.1 fluid and push out the air. Attach it to the caliper bleed port with the correct fitting.
Fit the second syringe, partly filled with fluid, to the lever bleed port. Open the lever port screw a turn or two.
Push fluid from the caliper syringe up through the system. Watch the lever syringe and stop before it overflows.
Close the lever port, then pull a vacuum with the lever syringe to draw trapped air down and out. Repeat push and pull a few times.
Tap the lever and hose gently to free bubbles, then do a final push from the caliper with both ports closed to pressurise the system.
Close the caliper port, remove both syringes and refit the port screws. Wipe away any spilled fluid with a clean rag.
Refit the pads and wheel. Pump the lever several times to set the pads, then check for a firm feel and no leaks.
Tips and common mistakes
Use only DOT 5.1 or DOT 4 fluid, never mineral oil, which will ruin SRAM seals.
Keep the lever syringe upright so air rises away from the port.
Old fluid turns dark, so flush until fresh clear fluid comes through.
Never let the lever syringe run dry or you will pull air back into the system.
Questions
Can I bleed SRAM Level TL brakes with one syringe?
It works, but a two-syringe push-pull bleed moves air out faster and gives a firmer lever. The video recommends the dual syringe method.
How often should I bleed my brakes?
Once a year for most riders, or sooner if the lever feels spongy or the fluid looks dark.
What happens if I get DOT fluid on the frame?
Wipe it off straight away with a damp rag. DOT fluid strips paint if left on.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
