Motorcycle Repair: sticking front brakes, caliper pistons, project bike

Question
Hey there, I recently bought a 1982 xj650 maxim (yamaha)as a project bike. The front brakes were dragging when i got it, after taking apart the caliper and bleeding the brakes multiple times, and replacing the badly worn pads the front wheel loosened up. then after a short test ride the brakes were dragging again, bleeding them causes them to loosen for awhile but then they seize up again. Yamaha uses only one bolt for the assembaly and i made sure to torque it correctly, that dosn't help either. Any advice? thanks, -Josh    joshburs@earthlink.net

Answer
Hi Joshua,

I suspect brake fluid has gelled around the caliper seals. This is the usual cause for sticking caliper pistons.

If so, the caliper will need cleaned and seals replaced (in most cases).

I sent tech info files to your email addy.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively