Ok so after changing the electrical socket-rewiring the ground and installing a new bulb I have tail lights but no brake light on my 93 softail-the meter I used on the brake switch suggests I need a new switch...ok so I go to HD tom and spend 25 bucks on a new one.....when I removed the old switch I noticed some oil type fluid (hydraulic)? on the ground and when the rear brake pedal is depressed it shoots out....what is this fluid and do I need to replace it and if so how?

 

That's brake fluid. It's the stuff that presses on the switch when you hit the brake.

Reinstall the switch. Refill the rear brake fluid. Then you will have to bleed the rear brake line.

 

Kinda thought it was brake fluid......thanks

 

I checked my calendar...

Nope, it's not April 1st!

 

First the derby cover screw and now this.

 

You know, I would not normally suggest this, but I think this might be the ideal time... You might want to start letting the dealer do your repair work.

 

Use the internet and figure out what you are doing besides just guessing. There is lots of information about any and all repairs using the internet. A repair manual would be a plus for you and make sure that the brake fluid doesn't get on paint.

 

Pssst! (He is on the internet).

 

A good way to confirm this, is to pour some on your paint job.

If the paint wrinkles up and falls off the bike,..... it's brake fluid.
(In other words, be careful with that chit).






.

 

Someone told me that DOT 5 brake fluid won't eat paint. Someone want to test that for me? LOL

To the OP, I think you want to make sure you use DOT 5 to top off the brake fluid you lost.