Help - Brake Line Replacement

Posted By: Ed Mocon

Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 09, 2017 02:48 pm UTC

The brake lines on my 92 non-turbo talon running to the back axle are rotten and are leaking. I'm going to attempt to replace. I'm likely looking at replacing the entire brake line system to the rear of the car. Has anyone attempted this. Can you tell me:

What diameter of brake line do I need?

Has anyone been able to source pre-formed lines, eliminating the need for me to have try and bend my own?

Help!!
Posted By: Lucian Marta

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 09, 2017 03:32 pm UTC

Yes, it's best to replace the entire line, from the distribution block to each caliper. I've done them. For the longest time I used to avoid brake lines because I thought they were difficult, but they're really not. Annoying more than anything but by no means difficult. Even on your back on axle stands, you can do a nice job.

As far as I know you won't be able to find premade lines. You have to make them.

You're going to need a roll of 3/16 brake line, as well as 3/16 (M10x1.0) flare nuts for each end. My suggestion is get the EZ Bend tubing, you can bend that nicely with your hands. Standard brake tubing will require a tube bender for the nicest and best results.

Trick is to use a GOOD flaring tool. Don't buy the $30 because it will flare like crap. I tried. Gave up and rented the tool from Parts Source, and all my flares came out perfect and no leaks.

You'll also need a tube cutter, a file, and some brake fluid (of course). Tube cutter cuts nice and smooth. A trick with the file is to get rid of any burrs the cutter may have left, and it helps to put a slight 45 degree taper on the end of the line you're about to flare. This is also where a little bit of brake fluid comes in handy. You use it as a lubricant for the flaring tool/brake line while you're flaring. You can't use motor oil or WD40 as you don't want any of these contaminating the brake fluid once the job is done. Use brake fluid from the get-go, just wear gloves and make sure you don't spill any on paint smile
Posted By: Bryan Lawrence

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 09, 2017 04:03 pm UTC

Nice work Lucian, I was coming to add but he has covered it all.

EZ Bend is super easy to work with and you will be happier using that than using preformed.
Posted By: Ed Mocon

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 09, 2017 05:39 pm UTC

Thanks for the insight. I'll post a follow-up after I've attempted this!
Posted By: Jason Drew

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 15, 2017 12:23 pm UTC

+1 on all of Lucian's suggestions. The worst thing you can do is get a cheap flaring tool, it turns a relatively easy job into huge frustration.

When it's all done, a vacuum brake bleeder works wonders too.
Posted By: Alex Akachinskiy

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 15, 2017 04:07 pm UTC

Originally Posted by Lucian Marta
As far as I know you won't be able to find premade lines. You have to make them.


I think RTM Racing may have pre-made lines including rear lines.
Posted By: Ziggy Dietrich

Re: Help - Brake Line Replacement - August 15, 2017 04:18 pm UTC

The RTM lines are flex lines, not hard lines.
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