Recall 78V-159: 1978 Harley-Davidson FLH1200, 1978 Harley-Davidson FLH80 and 5 more

HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTOR CO. recall for service brakes, hydraulic, reported to NHTSA on Jul 19, 1978, covering about 342 vehicles.

NHTSA number
78V-159
Report date
Jul 19, 1978
Vehicles affected
342
Owners notified
Aug 11, 1978

The problem

The involved motorcycles were manufactured with front brake master cylinders in which the plunger piston bore diameter was honed .015 inches over maximum specifications. This oversized bore results in a poor fit between the elastomeric piston cup and the cylinder bore, which allows fluid leakage from the hydraulic system.

The fix

Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the front brake master cylinder assembly at no cost to owner.

Notes

Vehicle description: motorcycles.system: service brakes; hydraulic system.consequences of defect: fluid depletion could result in loss of brakingeffectiveness, loss of vehicle control, and an accident.note: insufficient brake fluid in the system may be indicated by fluid leakagearound the master cylinder and increased free play in the hand lever.

Recall details

ManufacturerHARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTOR CO.
ComponentService Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number78V159000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Harley-Davidson FLH12001978All years
Harley-Davidson FLH801978All years
Harley-Davidson FX12001978All years
Harley-Davidson FXE12001978All years
Harley-Davidson FXS12001978All years
Harley-Davidson Xlch10001979All years
Harley-Davidson XLH10001979All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 78V-159?

The involved motorcycles were manufactured with front brake master cylinders in which the plunger piston bore diameter was honed .015 inches over maximum specifications. This oversized bore results in a poor fit between the elastomeric piston cup and the cylinder bore, which allows fluid leakage from the hydraulic system.

How is recall 78V-159 fixed?

Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the front brake master cylinder assembly at no cost to owner.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.