View Full Version : Tips for changing brake lines?


audiohs
03-29-2005, 05:14 AM
Over the weekend, I helped a friend install some B5 S4 calipers onto his B6 A4. That has inspired me to install my brake upgrade when the time comes. My concern is removing the brake line when I have to install the ss-lines. My car is a 97, should I have any concerns about how to remove the existing lines? I don't think that the lines have ever been removed before so I'm worried about it being seized on, etc. I live in a non-weather friendly area where salt is part of the local street's diet. Any tips would be appreciated.

Another Drew
03-29-2005, 08:01 AM
I have a couple:

1) clean the area first as you don't want to get any dirt into the brake caliper and lines while you're swapping the lines.

2) If you're throwing away your old brake line, crimp the brake line with a vice grip or something. This will prevent brake fluid from dripping while you're working on the lines.

3) disconnect the old line at the caliper first.

4) connect the new line to the caliper

5) disconnect the old line at the hard line, and quickly connect the new line to the hard line.

Philscbx
04-05-2005, 05:31 AM
Presoak everything for a week - and keep it wet.
You can start with the worthless WD40 first - now follow up with heavier based product like LPS3 which will never dry - but converts to a waxy oily covering.

You want all fittings treated at every point they are removed at. Don't forget the brake caliper fittings as well - bleeder for sure. And any body mounted clamps.

If the tool You use later to break fittings loose at line connections starts to fail - stop before forcing the fitting to a deformed state.

You will need line wrenches at this point (They slip on over he hose first Like a 6 point box end wrench only exception is small opening to slip over side of hose) and possible concentrated heat applied. Attention given to protect any hose from over heated fitting will burst out of fitting if not paying attention - Keep cold wet rags handy in water.

When You install new SS lines vs the standard rubber ones - You will notice braking like You never knew before.
Other Advice - Everything Drew said.

audiohs
04-08-2005, 07:31 AM
I've got Liquid Wrench at home, would that be okay to spray on the fitting?<ul><li><a href="http://www.acehardware.com/sm-gunk-liquid-wrench-super-penetrant-12-pack--pi-1425218.html">Liquid Wrench</a></li></ul>