If you over tighten the screws that can make it leak. Get a new gasket and tighten to spec.

 

COVER ALL YOUR PAINTED PARTS BEFORE REMOVING THE COVER!!!!!!! Brake Fluid is hard on Paint!

 

Actually, HD does make a fix. Replace the top. It's a $25. And a PLASTIC COVER over the rubber and hard plastic inner. Prevents the corroding on the cap.

 

As mentioned, do what you have to, to get the reservoir level as you can before you take the lid off. Make sure you have the correct brake fluid that your bike calls for, may be marked on the brake system. Good luck!

 

The screws typically get tightened to 8 inch pounds. that's not much, just enough to make the gasket barely bulge out between the two surfaces. Don't forget, PROTECT your painted surfaces.

 

Agree.

 

Agree what has been recommended so far. I will offer this up as a suggestion. If you take that rubber gasket off. Take the precautions mentioned by turning the bars to get reservoir level and cover any paint. Remove the cover. Get some rubbing alcohol and really clean that gasket. Really, really, massage the heck out of that gasket with your fingers. Clean the lid and mating surface as well with the alcohol being careful not to contaminate the fluid. Reassemble and tighten very gently. You want it snug but not enough to cause the gasket to bulge. I have done this a couple times when they said I couldn't get just the gasket and wanted 25 bux for new lid/gasket. You can also lightly sand any bubbled paint and touch up with a small detail brush. Worked for me and my friend that had same problem - his was rear brake. Certainly worth a shot and got nothing to lose. Good luck. Jim