If you live in an area where you have a lot of precipitation, or your city uses a lot of salt in the winter, then you may find that your brake lines are in bad condition. If you're mechanically experienced, then changing them yourself is completely possible. There are two ways to change your brake lines: You can buy a pre-formed kit with all the fittings, or you can buy rolls of brake lines, flare them yourself and install the fittings yourself. If you think this project for you, then here are some of the things you need to change your brake lines.
Pre-formed kits:
Pre-formed kits and lines are ideal if you don't want to buy or rent a lot of extra equipment for flaring the ends or bending the tubes. It could also save you a lot of time as well and is perfect for changing only a small portion of the system. The tools you need for these kits are:
Line wrenches in the proper sizes
Drip pans
Tube cutters
Rust Removers
Brake Fluid
Floor jack and jack stand
Do-it-yourself brake lines:
Kits aren't available for every make and model of vehicle out there, so this may be the only option available for you if you need to replace all or most of your lines. You will need to do a lot more planning and measuring in this case. Make sure you get the right size brake lines and fittings and make sure those fittings are brand new. Other tools you may need, in addition to those needed for pre-formed kits, include:
Flaring tools
Pipe bending tool
Deburring tool
Removing and replacing the lines:
You may want to cut the brake lines first, then remove the fittings and junctions later. Make sure block fluid from leaking at the master cylinder, otherwise you will have to remove it and bench-bleed it if it runs dry. Use rust remover and lubricant on the old fittings to remove them with your line wrench. If you are making your own lines, then you will need to measure out and form the tubes before putting on the fittings and flaring the ends. If you're using a kit, once you've removed the old lines and fittings, then the new lines should be easy to replace. As you let fluid fill the new lines, make sure that the master cylinder is kept full. Finally, after all the fittings are tightened to specification, bleed the brakes and check for leaks.
Rusty brake lines are a potential hazard and should be replaced as soon as possible. Replacing brake lines is the way to go to keep your car safe. If you need rolls of brake lines and fittings, then they are readily available at any retailer who specializes in hydraulic and brake lines. For more information, contact companies like Williams Oil Filter Service Co.
Share2 August 2017
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