Rear axle brake hardlines

[trbankii]

Hmmm... Brakes didn't quite feel right while out today. Checked when I got home and the reservoir for the rear brakes was completely empty. :eek:

Start looking around and find the wet spot at the driver's side of the rear axle. Looks like the hardline rotted through under the clip that holds it to the axle.

Not having much luck with finding the part online - RockAuto, GMPartsDirect, etc. Can get the hoses, but not the hardlines. Only place that seems to have a listing is www.inlinetube.com - 90-94 Power Disc Brake Line Set 11pc 3/4 ton Long bed. Looks like all of the hardlines for $185 for steel or $210 for stainless. Extra $25 would be a no-brainer, I think.

Have to check with the dealer tomorrow to see if I can get the one line. I'm not really looking at replacing everything right now.

Any thoughts?

[DmaxMaverick]

Napa and many "better" parts stores will have fixed length brake lines (with the correct fitting at each end) for a fraction of that cost. Tubing benders are cheap, and a little practice makes for professional results. If you can flare, it gets cheaper yet. Bulk lines and fittings are very inexpensive, compared to fabricated lines.

On the other hand..... $210 for all SS hard lines isn't a bad way to go. Easy job, if it all fits. What is your time (and peace of mind) worth?

[trbankii]

Any suggestions on measuring for the replacement line from NAPA? I had thought about going the "roll your own" route.

[DmaxMaverick]

Measuring is easy. Run a string along the line, then select a length within an inch, if not exact (there's room for adjustment, an inch longer is better than an inch shorter). If you're going to bend your own for the first time, PM me and I can give you some helpful advice. It's easy, but there are a few simple techniques to prevent flattening/rippling/kinking the line.

When you buy the lines, take the old with you (don't destroy them during removal, as best you can). Make SURE the fittings are the correct size and type. Also, buy/acquire a bender of the same radius for the tubing size (two-handled type is the best). Match as close as possible the tubing size (diameter) of the new line, and the bend radii of the old line, with the bender (makes exact duplication a lot easier).

Come to think of it...... I may have a set. I'll have to check. If I do, they'll be taken off of a 95, and should be in good shape (no rust here). If they are the same, or close with the same fittings, they should work. You can have them for postage, if they'll work.

[trbankii]

Thanks for the offer. Going to pick up a line this morning and try my hand at bending. We'll see how that goes.

[trbankii]

Bending brake lines wasn't half the ordeal that I was expecting it to be. Went fairly easily. Need a bit of practice to be able to get the bends exactly where I want them, but I'm pleased with my results.

[DmaxMaverick]

Very good. There's a simple technique to getting the bends exact.

[phantom309]

Very good. There's a simple technique to getting the bends exact.
Okay time to share,.. because mine always look like sphagetti on steroids,.

Nick

[a5150nut]

Okay time to share,.. because mine always look like sphagetti on steroids,.

Nick

I was hoping he would spill the beans too. . . . . emt is a 6 in radius so I figure it's something like that for brake lines, just shorter. :D