2018-2022

Code™ RSC / R service

manual

GEN.0000000005759 Rev E
© 2022 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.
This warranty applies to SRAM products made under the SRAM®, RockShox®, Truvativ®, Zipp®, Quarq®, Avid® and TIME® brand names.
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 • Jockey wheels • Sprockets
• Air sealing o-rings • Cleats • Rear shock mounting • Stripped threads/bolts (aluminum,
• Batteries • Corrosion hardware and main seals titanium, magnesium or steel)
• Bearings • Disc brake rotors • Rubber moving parts • Tires
• Bottomout pads • Dust seals • Shifter and Brake cables • Tools
• Brake pads • Free hubs, Driver bodies, Pawls (inner and outer) • Transmission gears
• Bushings • Foam rings, Glide rings • Shifter grips • Upper tubes (stanchions)
• Cassettes • Handlebar grips • Spokes • Wheel braking surfaces
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.
 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® CODE™ BRAKE SYSTEMS SERVICE.....................................................................................................................................................5
SERVICE PROCEDURES..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6

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

CODE™ CALIPER SERVICE...................................................................................................................................................................................8

PARTS, TOOLS AND SUPPLIES....................................................................................................................................................................................................................8
CALIPER EXPLODED VIEW............................................................................................................................................................................................................................8
CALIPER BRAKE PAD REMOVAL..................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
CALIPER PISTON REMOVAL........................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
CALIPER PISTON INSTALLATION.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14

CODE™ RSC LEVER SERVICE............................................................................................................................................................................ 17

PARTS AND TOOLS NEEDED FOR SERVICE......................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
CODE RSC LEVER EXPLODED VIEW........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
LEVER BLADE REMOVAL............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
PISTON ASSEMBLY REMOVAL................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
PISTON ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
LEVER BLADE INSTALLATION................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27

CODE™ R LEVER SERVICE................................................................................................................................................................................. 31

PARTS AND TOOLS NEEDED FOR SERVICE......................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
CODE R LEVER EXPLODED VIEW............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 31
LEVER BLADE REMOVAL............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 32
PISTON ASSEMBLY REMOVAL.................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
PISTON ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
LEVER BLADE INSTALLATION....................................................................................................................................................................................................................37
 SRAM® Code™ Brake Systems Service
We recommend that you have your SRAM Code 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 Code 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® Code™ 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
Code™ Caliper Service

P a r t s , To o l s a n d S u p p l i e s
Parts Bicycle Tools
• SRAM® Brake Pad Kit - Code • Bicycle work stand
• Caliper Piston Kit (includes 2-16 mm & 2-15mm caliper pistons, seals • Bench vice
& o-rings) - Code R B1/RSC A1
• Aluminum soft jaws
Safety and Protection Supplies
Common Tools
• Clean, lint-free rags
• 2.5 and 5 mm hex wrenches
• Nitrile gloves
• Needle nose pliers
• Oil pan
• Pick with a 90 degree bent tip
• Safety glasses
• T25 TORX® wrench
Lubricants and Fluids
• T25 TORX bit socket
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Torque wrench
• SRAM High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not
available, only use DOT 5.1 or 4 brake fluid. • Digital caliper

• SRAM or AVID® DOT grease. If SRAM or AVID DOT grease is not SRAM Tools
available only use a DOT compatible grease. • SRAM Brake Bleed Kit (includes: Large, 12 mm Bleed Block and Bleeding
Edge™ Fitting)
• Pad Spacer (Large, 2.0 mm) - Code

Caliper Exploded View

Banjo
Outboard
Heat shield
caliper body Caliper o-ring
Inboard caliper body Banjo
o-rings
Caliper pistons
Banjo
bolt
Caliper pistons

Caliper body bolt

Pad retention bolt Pad H-Spring

Piston seals E-clip
Brake pads

Caliper o-ring
Piston seals

Caliper body bolt

Pad spacer (Large, 2.0 mm) - Code

Bleed block (Large, 12 mm)

Code™ Caliper Service 8

Caliper Brake Pad Removal

1 Clamp the bicycle into a bicycle work stand and remove the wheel.

2 Remove the E-clip from the pad retention bolt. 2.5 mm

Remove the pad retention bolt from the caliper.

Needle Nose Pliers 15 mm Thru Axle

3 Remove the brake pads and pad H-spring from the caliper.

NOTICE
If the brake pad thickness is less than 3 mm then replace the pads.

Digital 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 (e.g. 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 Install the pad retention bolt. Pad Spacer Tool

Insert the pad spacer so that it snaps onto the pad retention bolt.

2.5 mm 15 mm Thru Axle

2 Squeeze the brake lever repeatedly to advance the pistons, and stop
when they contact the pad spacer.

3 Remove the caliper, mounting bolts, and hardware.

T25 or 5 mm

Caliper Piston Removal 10

4 Remove the lever and clamp.

T25

5 Remove the banjo bolt and hose, then remove the banjo bolt from the
banjo.

T25

6 Remove the banjo bolt o-rings and replace with new o-rings.

7 Remove the pad spacer.

Caliper Piston Removal 11

8 Remove the pad retention bolt.

2.5 mm

9 Place the caliper in a vice with soft jaws, then remove each caliper
body bolt.

T25

10 Separate the caliper body halves.

Set the heat shield aside.

11 Remove the pistons from each caliper body half.

Caliper Piston Removal 12

12 Remove the piston seals from each caliper body half, then clean the
caliper halves. Apply a small amount of SRAM® High-Performance DOT
5.1 brake fluid to new seals and install into 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.

NOTICE
For the best braking performance, use only SRAM High-Performance
DOT 5.1 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.

13 Remove the caliper o-rings from the outboard side of the caliper.

Caliper Piston Removal 13

 Caliper Piston Installation

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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.
Apply a small amount of SRAM® High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid
to the circumference of each piston. Install the pistons into the caliper
bores.

NOTICE
For the best braking performance, use only SRAM High-Performance
DOT 5.1 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.
DOT 5.1 brake fluid 15 mm Thru Axle

2 Add a small amount of DOT compatible grease onto the new caliper
o-rings, then install them into the caliper.

SRAM DOT Grease

3 Align the caliper body halves, then thread each body bolt into the
caliper two full turns.
Install the heat shield so that the heat shield tabs are in the caliper
alignment holes on each side of the caliper.

T25 15 mm Thru Axle

Caliper Piston Installation 14

4 Align the caliper body halves. Ensure the heat shield remains pressed
against the caliper. Tighten each body bolt.

NOTICE
Visually inspect the caliper to confirm the caliper o-rings are not
protruding. If an o-ring is visible, then remove the caliper body bolts
and reinstall. Pinched o-rings may cause leaks.

T25 9.8-11.8 N·m (87-104 in-lb)

5 Insert the bleed block into the caliper.

Bleed Block

6 Install the pad retention bolt.

⚠ 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 lead to a brake failure.

2.5 mm

7 Install the banjo and hose, then hand tighten the banjo bolt.

NOTICE
Visually inspect the banjo bolt hole to confirm the o-ring is not pinched
or protruding. If the o-ring is visible, then remove the bolt and reinstall.
Pinched o-rings may cause leaks.

T25

Caliper Piston Installation 15

 8 Tighten the banjo bolt and hose.
Clean the caliper.

T25 4.4-5.4 N·m (39-48 in-lb)

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 and brake hose shortening instructions, visit www.sram.com/service.

Caliper Piston Installation 16

Code™ RSC 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 • 2.5 & 4 mm hex wrenches
• Hydraulic Disc Brake Hose Fitting Kit (includes 1 threaded hosebarb, • Needle nose pliers
1 red comp fitting) Qty 1 - Stealth-a-majig™
• Pick with a 90 degree bent tip
• Safety and Protection Supplies
• T8, T10, & T25 TORX® wrench
• Clean, lint-free rags
• T8 & T10 TORX bit socket
• Nitrile gloves
• 8 mm flare nut wrench
• Oil pan
• 8 mm flare nut crowfoot wrench
• Safety glasses
• Torque wrench
Lubricants and Fluids
• Magnet
• Isopropyl alcohol
SRAM Tools
• Loctite® Blue 242®
• Lever Internals Assembly Tool - Guide Ultimate/Guide 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.

Code RSC Lever Exploded View

Reservoir bolts

Lever Internals Assembly Tool

Hose boot
Reservoir cap
Bladder
Detent spring
Hose barb
Bleed port screws (2)
Detent ball SwingLink pivot hole
SwingLink bushings (2)
Hose Piston assembly Lever return spring
Compression nut
Compression fitting Sleeve
SwingLink push rod
Pivot pin

Lever body Coupler

Pinch bolt
Lever pivot hole Piston assembly
Lever pivot bolts (2) (Stealth-a-majig™- OEM)
SwingLink™
Contact Point Adjust™ dial

Lever blade assembly

Code™ RSC Lever Service 17

 Lever Blade Removal

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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

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

1 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 Remove the hose compression nut.

Pull the brake hose and compression fitting from the brake lever body.

8 mm flare nut wrench

Lever Blade Removal 18

4 Remove the reservoir cap bolt nearest to the lever blade.

T10

5 Use a magnet to remove the detent spring and ball.

6 Remove the remaining reservoir cap bolt, then remove the reservoir
cap and bladder.

T10

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

Oil Pan

Lever Blade Removal 19

8 Separate the bladder from the reservoir cap.
Clean the reservoir cap, then discard the bladder.

9 Remove the lever pivot bolts.

T10

10 Remove the lever blade assembly from the lever body.

Lever Blade Removal 20

Piston Assembly Removal

1 Remove the SwingLink™ pinch bolt.

T8

2 Push out the SwingLink pivot pin.

T8

3 Remove the SwingLink.

T8

4 Remove the SwingLink bushings from both sides of the lever.

Piston Assembly Removal 21

5 Use a SRAM® Lever Internals Assembly Tool to unthread the piston
sleeve and coupler. Insert the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool
into the lever body and align the key slot of the tool with the piston
coupler. Use the tool to unthread the sleeve and remove the sleeve
and coupler.
If the piston sleeve and coupler are stuck in the lever body, use needle
nose pliers to gently remove.

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool

6 Remove the sleeve from the coupler.

Clean the sleeve and coupler.

7 Place a rag over the lever body to prevent the piston assembly from
ejecting.
Push out the contact adjust knob.

⚠ CAUTION - EYE HAZARD

Use safety glasses.
The piston assembly is spring loaded and will forcefully eject from the
lever body when the contact knob is removed.

8 Remove the piston assembly from the lever body.

Clean the lever body.

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 (e.g. 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 a new piston in SRAM® High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake

fluid.
You can also use SRAM DOT Assembly Grease, or DOT 5.1 or 4
compatible grease, as a lubricant.

DOT 5.1 brake fluid

2 Install the new piston assembly into the lever body.

Clean the lever body.

3 Use the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool to press the piston into
the lever body, while inserting the contact adjust knob into the contact
adjust slot.
You should hear a pop sound when the contact knob is fully seated in
place.

Piston Assembly Installation 23

4 Place the sleeve on the coupler.
The sleeve threads must be oriented toward the base of the coupler.

5 Use the SRAM® Lever Internals Assembly Tool to engage and thread
the sleeve and coupler onto the piston assembly.
Engage the slots on the sleeve with the contact adjust knob and
continue to thread the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool in a
clockwise rotation until it stops.

6 Install the SwingLink™ bushings.

If the SwingLink bushings fall out easily, apply a small amount of SRAM
DOT grease to the bushings to help hold them in place.

SRAM DOT Grease

7 Place the SwingLink onto the SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool to
adjust the length of the push rod.
Adjust the length of the push rod: turn counter-clockwise to make the
push rod fit more snug in the tool, turn clockwise to make the push rod
more loose in the tool.

SRAM Lever Internals Assembly Tool 2 mm

Piston Assembly Installation 24

8 Remove the SwingLink™ from the SRAM® Lever Internals Assembly Tool
and place the push rod into the coupler sleeve.

9 Align the holes of the SwingLink and the SwingLink bushings, then
press the pivot pin into the hole until it is flush with the lever body.

Piston Assembly Installation 25

10 Apply a small amount of Loctite® Blue 242® onto the SwingLink™
pinch bolt.
T8

Loctite Blue 242 15 mm Thru Axle

11 Tighten the SwingLink pinch bolt.

T8 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lbs) 2

Piston Assembly Installation 26

 Lever Blade Installation

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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 Install the lever blade.

Line up the pivot holes of the lever blade with the pivot holes in 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 springs must press against the lever body. If the
return spring is not seated properly, you will not be able to adjust the
reach of the lever blade.

2 Apply a small amount of Loctite® Blue 242® onto each pivot bolt.

Loctite Blue 242

3 Thread each pivot bolt into the bearings on each side of the lever body.

T10

Lever Blade Installation 27

4 Tighten each pivot bolt.

T10 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lbs) 2

5 Press a new bladder into the reservoir cap. Make sure the bladder is
properly seated into the reservoir cap.

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

7 Install a new detent ball followed by a detent spring into the lever body
reservoir hole closest to the lever blade.

Lever Blade Installation 28

8 Install each reservoir cap bolt, then tighten.

T10 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lbs) 2

9 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.

SRAM® Hydraulic Hose Cutter

10 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

11 Install the compression nut onto the hose.

Lever Blade Installation 29

12 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.

13 Install the compression fitting and nut into the lever.

14 Tighten the compression nut.

Clean the lever.

8 mm flare nut crowfoot wrench 8 N·m (71 in-lbs) 22 m

⚠ 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

Code™ R 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™ R/RE / DB5™ / Code R - Qty 1 • 2 mm & 4 mm hex wrenches
• Hydraulic Disc Brake Hose Fitting Kit (includes 1 threaded hosebarb, • Needle nose pliers
1 red comp fitting) Qty 1 - Stealth-a-majig™
• Pick with a 90 degree bent tip
Safety and Protection Supplies
• T8, T10, & T25 TORX® wrench
• Clean, lint-free rags
• T8 & T10 TORX bit socket
• Nitrile gloves
• 8 mm flare nut wrench
• Oil pan
• 8 mm flare nut crowfoot wrench
• Safety glasses
• Torque wrench
Lubricants and Fluids
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Loctite® Blue 242®
• 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.

Code R Lever Exploded View

Reservoir bolts

Reservoir cap
Push rod/Cam
Hose barb
Binder plug
Bladder Snap ring

Piston assembly Washer

(Stealth-a-majig™- OEM)
Washer

Hose boot Compression fitting

Compression nut Pinch bolt

Lever return spring

Lever body
Piston assembly

Bleed port screws (2)

Pivot pin

Lever blade
Level blade bushings (2)

Code™ R Lever Service 31

 Lever Blade Removal

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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 Pull the hose boot away from the brake body to expose the
compression nut, then slide the boot down the brake hose.

2 Remove the hose compression nut.

Pull the brake hose and compression fitting from the brake lever body.

8 mm flare nut wrench

3 Remove each reservoir cap bolt.

T10

4 Remove the reservoir cap and bladder from the lever body.

Lever Blade Removal 32

5 Pour the fluid from the brake lever body into a pan. Squeeze the lever
blade to force any remaining brake fluid out of the lever body.
Clean the lever.

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 best braking performance, use only SRAM® High-Performance
DOT 5.1 brake fluid. If SRAM fluid is not available, use only High-
Performance DOT 5.1 brake fluid or 4 fluid.

Oil Pan

6 Separate the bladder from the reservoir cap.

Clean the reservoir cap.

7 If applicable: Remove the binder plug.

Pick

8 Remove the pinch bolt.

T8

Lever Blade Removal 33

9 Push out the pivot pin.

T8

10 Remove the lever blade.

The Code™ R lever blade has four pieces; the lever blade, the cam/
push rod assembly, a washer, and the lever return spring. To hold all
pieces together, reinstall the lever pivot pin and gently set aside.

Lever Blade Removal 34

 Piston Assembly Removal

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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 Remove the lever blade bushings.

Pick

2 Place the tips of the pliers into the eyelets of the snap ring, then
squeeze the pliers to remove the snap ring.

Internal Snap Ring Pliers

3 Remove the washer.

4 Remove the piston assembly.

Clean the lever body.

Needle Nose Pliers

Piston Assembly Removal 35

 Piston Assembly Installation

NOTICE
DOT brake fluid will damage painted surfaces. If any fluid comes in contact with a painted surface (e.g. 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 a new piston in SRAM® High-Performance DOT 5.1 brake

fluid.
You can also use SRAM DOT Assembly Grease, or DOT 5.1 or 4
compatible grease, as a lubricant.

DOT 5.1 brake fluid

2 Install the new piston assembly into the lever body.

Clean the lever body.

3 Install the washer on the piston assembly.

4 Push the piston assembly into the lever body and secure the snap ring
in its groove. Orient the snap ring eyelets opposite the opening in the
lever body.
Use a 10 mm deep socket against the snap ring to push the piston/
washer/snap ring assembly into the lever body and insure it is seated
in the lever body.

Internal Snap Ring Pliers

Piston Assembly Installation 36

Lever Blade Installation

1 Insert the lever blade bushings into both sides of the lever.

Steps to reassemble the R lever blade assembly:

Place the washer on the cam/push rod assembly. Apply a small amount
of SRAM® DOT grease to hold the washer in place.

Install the lever return spring onto the cam/push rod assembly.

While holding the cam/push rod/lever return spring/washer in place,

install the assembly onto the lever blade and proceed to step 2.

Lever Blade Installation 37

2 Insert the lever blade assembly into the lever body, placing the push
rod into the piston and lever return spring on 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 body. If the
return spring is not seated properly, you will not be able to adjust the
reach of the lever blade.

3 Line up the cam and lever blade with the holes in the lever body, then
press the pivot pin through the holes.

4 Apply a small amount of Loctite® Blue 242® onto the pinch bolt. T8
Thread the pinch bolt into the lever body.

Loctite Blue 242 15 mm Thru Axle

Lever Blade Installation 38

5 Tighten the pinch bolt.

T8 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lbs) 2

6 If applicable: Install the binder plug.

7 Press a new bladder into the reservoir cap so that the bladder is
properly seated and flush with the reservoir cap.

8 Insert the reservoir cap and bladder assembly onto the lever body.

Lever Blade Installation 39

9 Tighten each reservoir cap bolt.

T8 1.1-1.3 N·m (10-12 in-lbs) 2

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

12 Install the compression nut onto the hose.

Lever Blade Installation 40

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 crowfoot wrench 8 N·m (71 in-lb) 22 m

⚠ 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 41

 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 42

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®,
Single Digit®, Speed Dial®, Speed Weaponry®, Spinscan®, SRAM®, SRAM APEX®, SRAM EAGLE®, SRAM FORCE®, SRAM RED®,
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™, Flight Attendant™, 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™,
MicroAdjust™, 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.

© 2022 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 trademark of Henkel Corporation. 2760™ is trademark of the Henkel Corporation.
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