How to connect brake lines with a compression fitting.
The metal and rubber brake lines carry the brake fluid from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinders.Sometimes the lines travel through a proportioning block where the line pressure is equalized and goes to the brake cylinders or calipers.Over time, the brake lines need to be replaced.It is possible to replace just a section of the brake line.A few specialty tools and some basic steps can be used to join two brake lines together.
The metal and rubber brake lines carry the brake fluid from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinders.Sometimes the lines travel through a proportioning block where the line pressure is equalized and goes to the brake cylinders or calipers.Over time, the brake lines need to be replaced.It is possible to replace just a section of the brake line.A few specialty tools and some basic steps can be used to join two brake lines together.
Depending on your transmission type, you can set the shift selector in park or neutral.The emergency brake should be set firmly.Place two jack stands under the rear frame if you use a floor jack.Place two jack stands under the front frame of the vehicle.Place a drain pan under the damaged section of the brake line.If you unclasp the brake line it will allow it to drop a foot or more.
Turn the knob clockwise after placing a pipe cutter around a section of the brake line.Take the cutter out of the circle and turn the knob.Cut the line by rotating the cutter.On the other side of the line, do the same thing.Measure the damaged section of line with a tape measure and subtract 1/2 inch for your replacement line length.To clean the cut lines on the vehicle, use a wire brush.
Sand the ends of the vehicle brake lines.Sand any burs away if you want to fit the sandpaper inside the brake line opening.Do both lines.Push two male brake line fittings over each of the vehicle's brake lines.
The end of the brake line should be set a quarter-inch past the line sockets.The tool block can be tightened by hand.Refer to the flare tool instructions for the proper flare angle and diameter.
To align the conical flare shaft inside the brake line, place the flare tool hook clamps around the block.The end of the line can be compressed by twisting the T-handle on the flare tool.On the other brake line, remove the flare tool and repeat the process.
To cut the new brake line to your previous measurement, use a pipe cutter.Remove burs or plastic brake film from the inside and outside of the brake line end.There are two female connections on each end of the new brake line.The brake line should be set one end inside the tool block.The tool block can be tightened by hand.
Attach the flare tool to the block with the two hooks.The end of the brake line should be turned into a mushroom flare.On the other side of the brake line, repeat the procedure.Under the vehicle, take the new brake line section.
The male and female fitting on the new line should be done by hand.The same thing should be done on the other side.Pull the vehicle brake line backwards or forwards to connect the threads.Use two fuel line wrench to tighten the fitting.While you tighten the male fitting, hold the female fitting still with a wrench.Wait until the fittings are firmly snug.Remove the brake line from the plastic guides.