Tom wrote:
Would some one be kind enough to tell me if I can flare my own brake
lines to fit the original system. It seems to be different from any
flaring I have access to. If so where might I find the right flaring
tool. Thanks as always in advance. Tom 68 250
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Yes, Tom, you can flare your own brake lines. Sears and other auto
supply stores carry flaring kits. I believe that you are referring to
to the bubble flare end common on LBCs and other European cars. They
differ from the end on American made autos, but only because the
American flare gets crimped back on itself and folded over.
When I restored the Spit I purchased all new brake lines from Kipping
Spares, however, because I converted to a dual master cylinder I had
to fabricate the fittings and piping that connected up to the master
cylinder. I used my neighbor's Snap-On flare kit (which is similar to
the Sears Craftsman one - just more expensive :^) ) and it was
simple. Instead of three steps, there are only two - you make the
first flare into a "Y" shape, then invert the end and press again for
the bubble. That was it. No runs, no drips, no errors.
I know there are others on the list who know a LOT more about brake
line flaring (ISTR we had a lengthy thread on this some time ago).
You might also check the VTR website. Hey, now there's an idea for an
article if there isn't already one on the site. Anyone want to step
up and write a nice article on how to flare your own brake lines with
bubble flares?
Ross D. Vincenti
64 Spitfire 4
64 Porsche 356C Coupe
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