2016-2019

Guide Ultimate service

manual

GEN.0000000005801 Rev C
© 2021 SRAM, LLC
SRAM® LLC WARRANTY
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS AGAINST SRAM, LLC. YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM
STATE TO STATE, COUNTRY, OR PROVINCE. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR STATUTORY RIGHTS. TO THE EXTENT THIS
WARRANTY IS INCONSISTENT WITH THE LOCAL LAW, THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE DEEMED MODIFIED TO BE CONSISTENT WITH SUCH
LAW. FOR A FULL UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR RIGHTS, CONSULT THE LAWS OF YOUR COUNTRY, PROVINCE, OR STATE.
EXTENT OF LIMITED WARRANTY
Except as otherwise set forth herein, SRAM warrants its bicycle components to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a period of two
(2) years after original purchase of the product.
SRAM warrants all Zipp MOTO Wheels and Rims to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the product.
SRAM warrants all non-electronic Zipp branded bicycle components, Model Year 2021 or newer, to be free from defects in materials or workmanship
for the lifetime of the product.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
This warranty only applies to the original owner and is not transferable. Claims under this warranty must be made through the retailer where the
bicycle or the SRAM product was purchased or a SRAM authorized service location. Original proof of purchase is required. All SRAM warranty claims
will be evaluated by a SRAM authorized service location whereupon acceptance of the claim the product will be repaired, replaced, or refunded at
SRAM's discretion. To the extent allowed by local law claims under this warranty must be made during the warranty period and within one (1) year
following the date on which any such claim arises.
NO OTHER WARRANTIES
EXCEPT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN, AND TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LOCAL LAW, SRAM MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, GUARANTIES, OR
REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY TYPE (EXPRESS OR IMPLIED), AND ALL WARRANTIES (INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF REASONABLE
CARE, MERCHANTABILITY, OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE) ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED.
LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
EXCEPT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN, AND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL SRAM OR ITS THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS BE
LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME STATES (COUNTRIES AND PROVINCES) DO NOT
ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTY
This warranty does not apply to products that have been incorrectly installed, adjusted, and/or maintained according to the respective SRAM user
manual. The SRAM user manuals can be found online at sram.com/service.
This warranty does not apply to damage to the product caused by a crash, impact, abuse of the product, non-compliance with manufacturer's
specifications of intended usage, or any other circumstances in which the product has been subjected to forces or loads beyond its design.
This warranty does not apply when the product has been modified, including but not limited to, any attempt to open or repair any electronic and
electronic related components, including the motor, controller, battery packs, wiring harnesses, switches, and chargers.
This warranty does not apply when the serial number or production code has been deliberately altered, defaced, or removed.
SRAM components are designed for use only on bicycles that are pedal powered or pedal assisted (e-Bike/Pedelec).
Notwithstanding anything else set forth herein, the battery pack and charger warranty does not include damage from power surges, use of improper
charger, improper maintenance, or such other misuse.
This warranty shall not cover damages caused by the use of parts of different manufacturers or parts that are not compatible or suitable for use with
SRAM components.
This warranty shall not cover damages resulting from commercial (rental) use.
WEAR AND TEAR
This warranty does not apply to normal wear and tear. Wear and tear parts are subject to damage as a result of normal use, failure to service
according to SRAM recommendations, and/or riding or installation in conditions or applications other than recommended.
Wear and tear parts include:
• Aero bar pads • Chains • Rear shock mounting • Stripped threads/bolts (aluminum,
• Air sealing o-rings • Corrosion hardware and main seals titanium, magnesium or steel)
• Batteries • Disc brake rotors • Rubber moving parts • Tires
• Bearings • Dust seals • Shifter and Brake cables • Tools
• Bottomout pads • Free hubs, Driver bodies, Pawls (inner and outer) • Transmission gears
• Brake pads • Foam rings, Glide rings • Shifter grips • Upper tubes (stanchions)
• Bushings • Handlebar grips • Spokes • Wheel braking surfaces
• Cassettes • Jockey wheels • Sprockets
ZIPP IMPACT REPLACEMENT POLICY
Zipp branded products, Model Year 2021 or newer, are covered under a lifetime impact-damage replacement policy. This policy can be used to obtain
a replacement of a product in the event of non-warranty impact damage occurring while riding your bicycle. See www.zipp.com/support for more
information.

 2
 SAFETY FIRST!
We care about YOU. Please, always wear your safety glasses and
protective gloves when servicing SRAM products.
Protect yourself! Wear your safety gear!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SRAM GUIDE BRAKE SYSTEMS SERVICE.......................................................................................................................................................5
SERVICE PROCEDURES.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6

TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

CALIPER SERVICE...............................................................................................................................................................................................8
PARTS AND TOOLS NEEDED FOR SERVICE..........................................................................................................................................................................................8
CALIPER EXPLODED VIEW...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................8
CALIPER BRAKE PAD REMOVAL.................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
CALIPER PISTON REMOVAL....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
CALIPER PISTON INSTALLATION............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13

LEVER SERVICE................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
PARTS AND TOOLS NEEDED FOR SERVICE........................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
GUIDE ULTIMATE EXPLODED VIEW........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
LEVER BLADE REMOVAL............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
PISTON ASSEMBLY REMOVAL................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
PISTON ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 23
LEVER BLADE INSTALLATION.................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 27

DISC BRAKE PAD AND ROTOR BED-IN PROCEDURE................................................................................................................................ 31

 SRAM Guide Brake Systems Service
We recommend that you have your SRAM Guide components serviced by a qualified bicycle mechanic. Servicing SRAM components requires
knowledge of bicycle mechanics as well as the special tools and lubricants/fluids used for service.
SRAM brake systems need to be serviced periodically to optimize braking function. If brake fluid is leaking from any area of the brake there may be
damage or wear and tear to the internal moving parts. If the system has been contaminated with the wrong fluid there may be damage to all rubber
and plastic internal parts. If your brake was damaged in a crash there may be damage to the lever blade, pushrod, and housing assemblies. Inspect
and replace these parts to restore proper brake function.
Visit www.sram.com/service for the latest SRAM Spare Parts catalog and technical information. For order information, please contact your local SRAM
distributor or dealer.
For recycling and environmental compliance information, please visit www.sram.com/company/environment.
Information contained in this publication is subject to change at any time without prior notice. Your product's appearance may differ from the pictures
contained in this publication.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Do not use mineral oil or DOT 5 fluid.
If the brake system has been contaminated with mineral oil or DOT 5 fluid, flush all of the parts with soapy water, rinse them with clean water, then
allow all the parts to dry prior to rebuilding. Install new seals, a new bladder, and replace the hose.
For best results, use only SRAM High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid. If SRAM brake fluid is not available, only use DOT 5.1 or 4 brake fluid.
Use only DOT compatible grease.
Always wear safety glasses and nitrile gloves when working with DOT brake fluid.
Used DOT brake fluid should be recycled or disposed of in accordance to local and federal regulations.
Never pour DOT brake fluid down a sewage or drainage system or into the ground or a body of water.
Do not allow any brake fluid to come in contact with the brake pads. If this occurs, the pads are contaminated and must be replaced.
Place an oil pan on the floor underneath the area where you will be working on the brake.
Servicing your brakes removes all of the brake fluid from the system. You must bleed your brakes after you service the brake system. Consult the
SRAM MTB Disc Brake Hose Shortening and Bleed Manual at www.sram.com/service.

NOTICE
The Guide caliper must be serviced before the lever. The lever must be connected to the caliper and the brakes must still have fluid in them in order
to advance the pistons and service the caliper. Once the lever has been disconnected and the fluid drained it is not possible to advance the pistons.

⚠ CAUTION
Do not use mineral oil or DOT 5 fluid. Do not use tools, rags, or syringes that are contaminated with mineral oil or DOT 5 fluid. Using contaminated
materials will result in permanent damage to the seals and reduce braking performance. Brakes must be replaced if contaiminated with mineral oil or
DOT 5 fluid.

SRAM Guide Brake Systems Service 5

 Service Procedures
The following procedures should be performed throughout service, unless otherwise specified.

Clean the part with isopropyl alcohol and a clean, lint-free rag.
Clean the sealing surface on the part and inspect it for scratches.

Replace the o-ring or seal with a new one from the service kit.
Use your fingers, a ziptie, or a pick to pierce and remove the old seal or o-ring.
Apply DOT grease to the new seal or o-ring when instructed.

NOTICE
Do not scratch any sealing surfaces when servicing the product. Scratches can
cause leaks. Consult the spare parts catalog to replace the damaged part.

Use aluminum soft jaws when placing a part in a bench vise. Specified torque value in N·m (in-lb)
Tighten the part with a torque wrench to the torque value listed in the red bar.
When using a crowfoot socket and torque wrench, install the crowfoot socket
at 90 degrees to the torque wrench.

Service Procedures 6
 Tr o u b l e s h o o t i n g
NOTICE
Do not apply DOT brake fluid or grease to caliper pistons when performing troubleshooting procedures. Use of DOT brake fluid or grease can
diminish braking performance and cause rotor rubbing.
If your brakes exhibit excessive lever throw or spongy feel, perform the following steps before bleeding the system:
1. Clamp the bicycle into a bicycle work stand.
2. Remove the wheel from the affected caliper.n
3. Remove the brake pads.
4. Install the pad spacer.
5. Squeeze the brake lever several times until the pistons have advanced and contact the pad spacer. One piston may move faster than the other;
continue to squeeze the lever until the pistons touch the spacer.
6. Remove the pad spacer.
7. Use a plastic tire lever to push the pistons back into the caliper bores.
8. Repeat steps 4-7 until the pistons move freely.
9. Install the brake pads and the wheel.
10. Loosen the caliper bolts.
11. Lightly squeeze (approx. 4 lbs) the brake lever several times to position the brake pads to the proper distance from the rotor.
12. Center the caliper on the rotor, and tighten the caliper bolts.
13. Spin the wheel and check the brake function. The pistons should move freely and there should not be excessive brake lever throw. If there is no
improvement in the brake function, proceed with caliper service.

Troubleshooting 7
Caliper Service

P a r t s a n d To o l s N e e d e d f o r S e r v i c e

Parts Common Tools

• SRAM Guide Brake Pad Kit • Needle nose pliers
• Caliper Piston Kit - Guide Ultimate • Pick with a 90 degree bent tip
Safety and Protection Supplies • T25 TORX wrench

• Safety glasses • T25 TORX bit socket

• Nitrile gloves • Torque wrench

• Oil pan • Digital caliper

• Clean, lint-free rag SRAM Tools

Lubricants and Fluids • SRAM Brake Bleed Kit (includes: Bleed Block and Bleeding
Edge Fitting)
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Pad Spreader Tool (2.4 mm) - Guide Ultimate
• SRAM High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not
available, only use DOT 5.1 or 4 brake fluid.
• SRAM or AVID DOT grease. If SRAM or AVID DOT grease is not
available only use a DOT compatible grease.

Caliper Exploded View

Bleed block - Guide Ultimate/RSC/RS/R/T

Outboard caliper body
Pad Spreader (2.4 mm) - Guide Ultimate
Caliper body bolt
Caliper o-ring

Piston seals

Pad retention bolt

Heat shield
Caliper pistons Banjo
bolt
Piston seals

Caliper body
bolt

Caliper Banjo
o-ring Brake pads
Caliper pistons

H-spring
E-clip

Bleed screw port

Inboard caliper body

Caliper Service 8
Caliper Brake Pad Removal

1 Use a T25 TORX wrench to remove the brake caliper from the fork or
frame.
Remove the caliper mounting bracket and hardware from the caliper
then set them aside in the order that they were removed.

2 Use needle nose pliers to remove the E-clip from the pad retention
bolt. Remove the Guide Ultimate pad spreader.
2.5 mm hex wrench

Use a 2.5 mm hex wrench to remove the pad retention bolt from the
caliper.

Needle nose pliers 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

3 Remove the brake pads from the caliper.

NOTICE
Brake pads must be replaced if the total thickness of the backing plate
and pad friction material is less than 3 mm.

Caliper

Caliper Brake Pad Removal 9

 Caliper Piston Removal

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (i.e. your frame) or printing on the brakes, wipe it off
immediately and clean it with isopropyl alcohol or water. Damage to painted and/or printed surfaces by DOT brake fluid is not covered under warranty.

1 Use a 2.5 mm hex wrench to install the pad retention bolt.

Insert the Guide Ultimate pad spreader so that it snaps onto the pad
retention bolt.

2.5 mm hex wrench 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

2 Squeeze the brake lever to advance the pistons until they contact the
pad spreader.

3 Use a T25 TORX wrench to remove the banjo bolt.

T25 TORX wrench

Caliper Piston Removal 10

4 Remove the Guide Ultimate pad spreader. 2.5 mm hex wrench
Use a 2.5 mm hex wrench to remove the pad retention bolt.

5 Use a T25 TORX wrench to remove each caliper body bolt.

T25 TORX wrench

6 Separate the caliper body halves.

Set the heat shield aside.

7 Remove both of the caliper o-rings from the outboard side of the
caliper.

Caliper Piston Removal 11

8 Remove the pistons from each caliper body half.

9 Use a pick to remove the piston seals from each caliper body half.
Install new seals inside each caliper body half.
⚠ CAUTION
Do not scratch the seal gland with the pick. Scratches could cause fluid
to leak when the brake is applied, which will contaminate the brake
pads and could lead to a brake failure.

Pick 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

Caliper Piston Removal 12

 Caliper Piston Installation

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (i.e. your frame) or printing on the brakes, wipe it off
immediately and clean it with isopropyl alcohol or water. Damage to painted and/or printed surfaces by DOT brake fluid is not covered under warranty.

1 Inspect the caliper pistons for damage and replace the pistons if
necessary.
SRAM High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid

Use your gloved finger to apply a small amount of SRAM

High-Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid to the circumference of each
piston. Install the pistons into each half of the caliper body.

NOTICE
For the best braking performance, use only SRAM
High-Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not available,
use only DOT 5.1 or 4 brake fluid. Do not use grease. Grease will
prevent the pistons from fully retracting into the caliper bores which will
reduce braking performance.

2 Spray isopropyl alcohol on the caliper halves and both of your gloves,
and clean them with a shop towel.

3 Install new caliper o-rings onto the outboard caliper half.

Add a small amount of DOT compatible grease onto the installed
o-rings to help them stay in place, or to prevent them from falling out,
as you assemble the caliper.

Caliper Piston Installation 13

4 Align the caliper body halves then use a T25 TORX wrench to thread
each body bolt into the caliper two full turns.
Install the heat shield.

T25 TORX 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

5 Use a T25 TORX bit socket with a torque wrench to tighten each bolt
to 9.8-11.8 N·m (87-104 in-lb).

T25 TORX 9.8-11.8 N·m (87-104 in-lb)

6 Remove the o-rings from the banjo bolt and banjo fitting.
Apply a small amount of SRAM High-Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid
to the new o-rings and install them.

Caliper Piston Installation 14

 7 Hold the banjo at the desired angle.
Use a torque wrench with a T25 TORX bit socket to tighten the bolt to
4.4-5.4 N·m (39-48 in-lb).

T25 TORX bit 4.4-5.4 N·m (39-48 in-lb)

8 Insert the Guide Ultimate bleed block into the caliper.

⚠ WARNING
You must bleed your brakes before reinstalling the brake pads.
Installing the brake pads prior to bleeding the brakes could
contaminate the brake pads and could lead to a brake failure.

Bleed block

9 Spray isopropyl alcohol on the caliper and clean it with a shop towel.

Visually check your work. If any of the o-rings protrude from the banjo fitting or banjo bolt, remove and replace the o-rings, then repeat the installation
process.

⚠ CAUTION
Servicing your brakes removes all of the fluid from the system. You must bleed the brakes after you service the brake caliper and/or lever.
For brake bleed, brake hose shortening, and brake pad replacement instructions, visit www.sram.com/service.

Caliper Piston Installation 15

 Lever Service
P a r t s a n d To o l s N e e d e d f o r S e r v i c e

Parts Common Tools

• Lever Internals - Guide Ultimate/RSC / Code RSC • Needle nose pliers
Safety and Protection Supplies • Pick with a 90 degree bent tip
• Safety glasses • T8, T10, & T25 TORX wrench
• Nitrile gloves • T8 & T10 TORX bit socket
• Oil pan • 8 mm flare nut crowfoot wrench
• Clean, lint-free rag • 2 mm & 4 mm hex wrench
Lubricants and Fluids • Torque wrench
• Isopropyl alcohol SRAM Tools
• Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 • Lever Internals Assembly Tool - Guide Ultimate/RSC / Code RSC
• SRAM High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not
available, only use DOT 5.1 or 4 brake fluid.
• SRAM or AVID DOT grease. If SRAM or AVID DOT grease is not
available only use a DOT compatible grease.

Guide Ultimate Exploded View

Reservoir bolts (2)

Lever Internals Assembly Tool

Reservoir cap

SwingLink pivot hole

Bladder
Lever body SwingLink Pinch
Detent spring Detent
ball Piston assembly Sleeve bolt
Hose barb Pivot pin
Hose Coupler

Bleed port SwingLink

Piston assembly push rod
Compression fitting (Stealth-a-majig- OEM)
Lever pivot bolts (2)
Compression nut Lever return spring
Lever pivot hole
Hose boot
SwingLink bushings (2)
Bleed port screws (2)
Lever blade

Contact Point Adjustment dial

Guide Ultimate Exploded View 16

 Lever Blade Removal

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (i.e. your frame) or printing on the brakes, wipe it off
immediately and clean it with isopropyl alcohol or water. Damage to painted and/or printed surfaces by DOT brake fluid is not covered under warranty.

1 Use a T25 TORX wrench or a 4 mm hex wrench to remove the brake

clamp bolt from the discrete clamp, MMX, or XLoc (XLoc requires
removal of the shifter) and remove the brake lever from the handlebar.

2 Pull the hose boot away from the brake body to expose the
compression nut, then slide the boot down the brake hose.

3 Use an 8 mm flare nut wrench to unthread the hose compression nut,

then pull the brake hose and compression fitting from the brake lever
body.

8 mm flare nut wrench

4 Pour the brake fluid into an oil pan. Squeeze the lever blade to force
any remaining brake fluid out of the lever body.

NOTICE
If the system has been contaminated with mineral oil or DOT 5 fluid,
flush all the parts with soapy water, rinse, and allow all parts to dry prior
to rebuilding. Install all new seals and a new hose.
For the best braking performance, use only SRAM High-Performance
5.1 DOT brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not available, use only High-
Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid or 4 fluid.

Lever Blade Removal 17

5 Use a T10 TORX wrench to remove the reservoir cap bolt nearest to
the lever blade.

T10 TORX wrench

6 Carefully turn the lever body upside down so that the detent spring
and ball fall out of the lever body. If they do not initially fall out, gently
tap the lever against a clean shop towel.

7 Use a T10 TORX wrench to remove the other reservoir cap bolt.

T10 TORX wrench

8 Remove the reservoir cover and bladder from the lever body.

Lever Blade Removal 18

9 Pour the fluid from the brake lever body into a pan.

10 Separate the bladder from the reservoir cover.

Spray isopropyl alcohol on the bladder and the reservoir cover, then
clean them with a shop towel.

NOTICE
All components must be completely dry before reinstalling them.
Moisture residue from cleaning the bladder can leak out of the bladder
as it dries, which can be misinterpreted as a system leak, when it is not.

11 Use a T10 TORX wrench to remove the lever pivot bolts.

T10 TORX wrench

12 Remove the lever blade.

Lever Blade Removal 19

Piston Assembly Removal

1 Use a T8 TORX wrench to unthread then remove the SwingLink pinch

bolt from the lever body.

T8 TORX wrench

2 Use the end of a T8 TORX wrench to push the SwingLink pivot pin out
of the lever body.

T8 TORX wrench

3 Slide the end of a T8 TORX wrench through the hole in the SwingLink,
then pull the SwingLink out of the lever body.

T8 TORX wrench

T8 TORX wrench

Piston Assembly Removal 20

4 Remove the SwingLink bushings by hand.

SwingLink bushings

5 Insert the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool into the lever body
and align the keyslot of the tool with the piston sleeve. Use the tool
to unthread the sleeve, then remove the sleeve and coupler from the
lever body.
If the piston sleeve and coupler become stuck in the lever body after
unthreading the piston sleeve, use a pair of needle nose pliers to gen-
tly grip the piston sleeve and remove it from the lever body.

Sleeve and coupler

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool

6 Remove the sleeve from the coupler from the SRAM tool, then separate
the sleeve and coupler by hand.
Spray isopropyl alcohol on both the sleeve and the coupler and clean
them with a shop towel.

7 Place a shop towel over the open end of the lever body near the
Contact Point Adjustment dial.
Use your fingers to slide the Contact Point Adjustment dial out of the
lever body.

⚠ CAUTION - EYE HAZARD

Wear safety glasses.
The piston assembly is spring loaded and will forcefully eject from the
lever body when the Contact Point Adjustment dial is removed. Be sure
to cover the end of the lever body with a shop towel to capture the
piston assembly and prevent it from becoming a projectile.

Piston Assembly Removal 21

8 Remove the piston assembly from the lever body.

9 Spray isopropyl alcohol on the lever body and the lever blade, then
clean them with a shop towel.

Piston Assembly Removal 22

 Piston Assembly Installation

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (i.e. your frame) or printing on the brakes, wipe it off
immediately and clean it with isopropyl alcohol or water. Damage to painted and/or printed surfaces by DOT brake fluid is not covered under warranty.

1 Submerge the new piston assembly in SRAM High-Performance 5.1

DOT brake fluid.
You can also use SRAM High-Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid or 4
compatible grease, as a lubricant.

SRAM High-Performance 5.1 DOT brake fluid

2 Insert the piston assembly into the lever body.

Spray isopropyl alcohol on the lever body and both of your gloves,
then clean them with a shop towel.

3 Use the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool to press the piston into
the lever body. While pressing down on the piston, with the half moon
shape of the tool turned toward the lever opening, insert the contact
adjust dial half way into the lever then remove the tool. Continue to
insert the dial so that it is fully seated into the lever body.
You should hear a pop sound when the contact knob is fully seated in
place.

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool

Piston Assembly Installation 23

4 Insert the sleeve into the coupler by hand.
The sleeve threads must be oriented away from the base of the
coupler.

5 Insert the sleeve and coupler into the keyslot of the SRAM Lever
Internals Assembly Tool.
Lever Internals Assembly Tool

Use the SRAM tool to align the slots on the sleeve with the slots on the
contact adjust dial and insert the SRAM tool into the lever body until
you feel the sleeve and contact adjust dial engage.
Thread the sleeve into the lever body until it stops then remove the
SRAM tool from the lever body.

Lever Internals Assembly Tool 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

6 Use needle nose pliers to install the SwingLink bushings into the lever
SwingLink pivot holes so that the lip of the bushing is flush on the
inside of the lever body.
If the SwingLink bushings fall out easily, apply a small amount of
grease to the bushings to help hold them in place.

Bushing

Needle nose pliers

Bushing lip

Piston Assembly Installation 24

 Place the SwingLink onto the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool to
7 adjust the length of the push rod on the SwingLink.
Use a 2 mm hex wrench to tighten the push rod into the SwingLink.

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool 2 mm

8 Use a caliper to verify that the push rod lenth in the SwingLink is
26.3 mm. Turn the push rod counter-clockwise by hand to extend the
pushrod length. Turn the push rod clockwise by hand to decrease the
pushrod length.

NOTICE
The push rod length must be set to exactly 26.3 mm. Any other length
will reduce brake performance.

Caliper

9 Place the SwingLink onto a 2 mm hex wrench then insert the pushrod
into the coupler sleeve.

2 mm hex wrench

2 mm hex wrench

Piston Assembly Installation 25

10 Align the SwingLink pivot holes and the SwingLink bushings, then
press the pivot pin into the SwingLink pivot hole until it is flush with the
lever body on both sides.

11 Apply a small amount of Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 onto the pinch
bolt.
T8 TORX wrench

Use a T8 TORX wrench to thread the SwingLink pinch bolt into the
lever body.
Use a torque wrench and a T8 TORX bit socket to tighten the bolt to
1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lb).

Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 20 mm or 15 mm Thru Axle

T8 TORX bit 1.1-1.3 N•m (10-12 in-lb) 22 m

Piston Assembly Installation 26

Lever Blade Installation

1 Insert the lever blade into the lever body with the inboard spring
pressing against the lever body.
Align the pivot holes of the lever blade and the lever body.

Make sure the lever return spring is seated properly in the lever. The
outboard end of the spring must press against the lever blade, while
the inboard end of the spring must press against the lever body. If the
return spring is not seated properly the reach adjustment feature of
the lever blade will be inoperable.

Inboard spring

2 Apply a small amount of Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 onto the

threads of each pivot bolt.

Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242

3 Use a T10 TORX wrench to thread each pivot bolt into the bearings on
each side of the lever body.

T10 TORX wrench

Lever Blade Installation 27

 Use a torque wrench and a T10 TORX bit socket to tighten each pivot
4 bolt to 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lb).

T10 TORX bit 1.1-1.3 N•m (10-12 in-lb) 22 m

5 Press the bladder into the reservoir cap, the bladder must be flush with
the cap to be properly installed.

6 Insert the reservoir cap/bladder assembly onto the lever body.

7 Use your fingers to insert the detent ball followed by the detent spring
into the lever body reservoir hole closest to the lever blade.

Lever Blade Installation 28

8 Use a torque wrench and a T10 TORX bit socket to tighten each
reservoir cap bolt to 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lb).

T10 TORX bit 1.1-1.3 N•m (10-12 in-lb) 22 m

9 Spray isopropyl alcohol on the lever body and clean it with a

shop towel.

10 Cut the hose to install a new barb and compression fitting.

⚠ WARNING
All SRAM brakes that use a compression fitting and hose barb
must use a new SJ (Stealth-a-majig) hose barb and a new, red SJ
compression fitting upon reassembly.
The factory may have installed a non-red SJ compression fitting,
which functioned properly prior to disconnection. Upon reconnection,
you must install a new SJ hose barb and a new, red SJ compression
fitting.
Brake hoses assembled with non-Stealth-a-majig hose barbs and
compression fittings, will not function.
SRAM Hydraulic Hose Cutter

11 Apply DOT grease to the hose barb threads. Thread the hose barb into
the hose until it is flush with the end of the hose.
T8

NOTICE
Do not overtighten the hose barb. Overtightening may cause damage
to the hose liner.

T8 DOT Grease

Lever Blade Installation 29

12 Install the compression nut onto the hose.

13 Thread the compression fitting over the hose barb, counter-clockwise,

until it is flush or slightly lower than the hose barb.
DOT Grease

The compression fitting is reverse threaded.

Apply DOT grease to the outside of the compression fitting and the
threads of the compression nut.

14 Install the compression fitting and nut into the lever.

15 Tighten the compression nut.

Clean the lever.

8 mm Flare Nut 8 N·m (71 in-lbs)

⚠ CAUTION
Servicing your brakes removes all of the fluid from the system. You must bleed the brakes after you service the brake caliper and/or lever.
For brake bleed, brake hose shortening, and brake pad replacement instructions, visit www.sram.com/service.

Lever Blade Installation 30

 Disc Brake Pad and Rotor Bed-in Procedure
All new brake pads and rotors should be put through a wear-in process called 'bed-in'. The bed-in procedure, which should be performed prior to your
first ride, ensures the most consistent and powerful braking feel along with the quietest braking in most riding conditions. The bed-in process heats
up the brake pads and rotors, which deposits an even layer of brake pad material (transfer layer) to the braking surface of the rotor. This transfer layer
optimizes braking performance. To watch a video of the bed-in procedure, visit www.sram.com/service.

⚠ WARNING- CRASH HAZARD

The bed-in process requires you to perform heavy braking. You must be familiar with the power and operation of disc brakes. Braking heavily when
not familiar with the power and operation of disc brakes could cause you to crash, which could lead to serious injury and/or death. If you are unfamiliar
with the power and operation of disc brakes, you should have the bed-in process performed by a qualified bicycle mechanic.
To safely achieve optimal results, remain seated on the bike during the entire bed-in procedure. Do not lock up the wheels at any point during the
bed-in procedure.
• Accelerate the bike to a moderate speed, then firmly apply the brakes until you are at walking speed. Repeat approximately twenty times.
• Accelerate the bike to a faster speed, then very firmly apply the brakes until you are at walking speed. Repeat approximately ten times.
• Allow the brakes to cool prior to any additional riding.
• After the bed-in procedure has been performed, the caliper may need to be re-centered.

Disc Brake Pad and Rotor Bed-in Procedure 31

These are registered trademarks of SRAM, LLC:

1:1®, Accuwatt®, Avid®, ATAC®, AXS®, Bar®, Bioposition®, Blackbox®, BoXXer®, DoubleTap®, eTap®, Firecrest®, Firex®, Grip Shift®,
GXP®, Holzfeller®, Hussefelt®, Iclic®, i‑Motion®, Judy®, Know Your Powers®, NSW®, Omnium®, Osmos®, Pike®, PowerCal®,
PowerLock®, PowerTap®, Qollector®, Quarq®, RacerMate®, Reba®, Rock Shox®, Ruktion®, Service Course®, ShockWiz®, SID®,
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SRAM RIVAL®, Stylo®, TIME®, Truvativ®, TyreWiz®, UDH®, Varicrank®, Velotron®, X0®, X01®, X‑SYNC®, XX1®, Zipp®

These are registered logos of SRAM, LLC:

These are trademarks of SRAM, LLC:

10K™, 1X™, 202™, 30™, 30 Course™, 35™, 302™, 303™, 353™, 404™, 454™, 808™, 858™, 3ZERO MOTO™ , ABLC™, AeroGlide™, AeroBalance™, AeroLink™,
Airea™, Air Guides™, AKA™, AL‑7050‑TV™, Atmos™, Automatic Drive™, AxCad™, Axial Clutch™, Base™, BB5™, BB7™, BB30™, Bleeding Edge™, Blipbox™,
BlipClamp™, BlipGrip™, Blips™, Bluto™, Bottomless Tokens™, Cage Lock™, Carbon Bridge™, Centera™, Charger 2™, Charger™, Charger Race Day™,
Cleansweep™, Clickbox Technology™, Clics™, Code™, Cognition™, CoLab™, Connectamajig™, Counter Measure™, CYCLO™, DD3™, DD3 Pulse™, DebonAir™,
Deluxe™, Deluxe Re:Aktiv™, Descendant™, DFour™, DFour91™, DH™, Dig Valve™, DirectLink™, Direct Route™, Domain™, DOT 5.1™, Double Decker™,
Double Time™, Dual Flow Adjust™, Dual Position Air™, DUB™, DUB‑PWR™, DZero™, E300™, E400™, Eagle™, E‑Connect4™, ErgoBlade™, ErgoDynamics™,
ESP™, EX1™, Exact Actuation™, Exogram™, Flow Link™, FR‑5™, Full Pin™, G2™, G40™, Giga Pipe™, Gnar Dog™, Guide™, GS™, GX™, Hard Chrome™,
Hexfin™, HollowPin™, Howitzer™, HRD™, Hybrid Drive™, Hyperfoil™, i‑3™, Impress™, Jaws™, Jet™, Kage™, Komfy™, LINK™, Lyrik™, MatchMaker™, Maxle™,
Maxle 360™, Maxle DH™, Maxle Lite™, Maxle Lite DH™, Maxle Stealth™, Maxle Ultimate™, Micro Gear System™, Mini Block™, Mini Cluster™, Monarch™,
Monarch Plus™, Motion Control™, Motion Control DNA™, MRX™, MX™, Noir™, NX™, OCT™, OmniCal™, OneLoc™, Paceline™, Paragon™, PC‑1031™, PC‑1110™,
PC‑1170™, PG‑1130™, PG‑1050™, PG‑1170™, Piggyback™, Poploc™, Power Balance™, Power Bulge™, PowerChain™, PowerDomeX™, Powered by SRAM™,
PowerGlide™, PowerLink™, Power Pack™, Power Spline™, Predictive Steering™, Pressfit™, Pressfit 30™, Prime™, Qalvin™, R2C™, Rapid Recovery™,
Re:Aktiv ThruShaft™, Recon™, Reverb™, Revelation™, Riken™, Roller Bearing Clutch™, Rolling Thunder™, RS‑1™, Rush™, RXS™, Sag Gradients™,
Sawtooth™, SCT ‑ Smart Coasterbrake Technology, Seeker™, Sektor™, SHIFT™, ShiftGuide™, Shorty™, Showstopper™, SIDLuxe™, Side Swap™,
Signal Gear Technology™, SL™, SL‑70™, SL‑70 Aero™, SL‑70 Ergo™, SL‑80™, Sl‑88™, SLC2™, SL SPEED™, SL Sprint™, Smart Connect™, Solo Air™,
Solo Spoke™, Speciale™, SpeedBall™, Speed Metal™, SRAM APEX 1™, SRAM Force 1™, SRAM RIVAL 1™, S‑series™, Stealth‑a‑majig™, StealthRing™,
Super‑9™, Supercork™, Super Deluxe™, Super Deluxe Coil™, SwingLink™, SX™, Tangente™, TaperCore™, Timing Port Closure™, TSE Technology™,
Tool‑free Reach Adjust™, Top Loading Pads™, Torque Caps™, TRX™, Turnkey™, TwistLoc™, VCLC™, Vivid™, Vivid Air™, Vuka Aero™, Vuka Alumina™,
Vuka Bull™, Vuka Clip™, Vuka Fit™, Wide Angle™, WiFLi™, X1™, X3™, X4™, X5™, X7™, X9™, X‑Actuation™, XC™, X‑Dome™, XD™, XDR™, XG‑1150™, XG‑1175™,
XG‑1180™, XG‑1190™, X‑Glide™, X‑GlideR™, X‑Horizon™, XLoc Sprint™, XPLR™, XPRESSO™, XPRO™, X‑Range™, XX™, Yari™, ZEB™, Zero Loss™, ZM2™, ZR1™

Specifications and colors subject to change without prior notice.

© 2021 SRAM, LLC

This publication includes trademarks and registered trademarks of the following companies:
TORX® is a registered trademark of Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC
Loctite® is a registered trademeark of Henkel Corporation. Blue 242™ is a trademark of Henkel Corporation.
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