Subject: [Shotimes] HELP with broken brake lines

[Koper Jim]

Steve,

Hopefully the line in question the driver's front line!

You may have clearance issues with trying to use the flare kit on the car,
so I'd simply replace the line in question. I had a brake line blow on my
other car ( '80 Fiesta, 222,000 miles and counting!) and I considered the
options you have mentioned. I bought straight brake line from NAPA. I
calculated the length I needed from the old line and then went to a local
machine shop that had flaring capabilities (mine was a 'bubble flare', not a
straight flare, so it was definitely not a DIY project--safety issues). I
ended up replacing all four lines since the others were composed of layers
of Ohio rust! BTW, after you have the section cut to length, be sure the
operator puts the flare nut (?) on BEFORE flaring the tube!

You WILL have fun using a brake line tube bender (Advanced Auto Parts, about
$10). Trial and error and patience are the keys to success. Use the old line
as your guide.

Before I assembled the new flare nut (?) into the end of the flex hose, I
put a small amount of anti-seize on the threads. It makes removal a bit
easier next time. I've done the same on my SHO (I've done about 6 caliper
replacements over the years) and have not had a problem with them--removal
of the fittings, that is. The calipers are a different story.

Also, when you are installing or removing one end of the line/flex
connection, be sure to have another wrench (and hand) on the other fitting
to counteract the initial torque when removing, or the final torque when
tightening. This will reduce the chance of twisting the thing right off.

Jim Koper

92 SHO (with the cranking/starting problem)



<original message below>

Well, I did it again. While trying to fix something simple (the flexible
rear brake hoses) I screwed something up. While trying to undo the flexible
hose from the solid brake line, I somehow managed to twist the entire
fitting off the solid line, and now there's a leak.

So I'm looking for some options. Do I have to replace the entire solid line?
Or can I have someone simply put a new fitting on the line? I know there are
brake fitting flare kits out there, but I don't have one, don't want one,
and don't know how to use one!

Suggestions please!

Thanks as always,

Steve Tatro
Red/Black '93 with 175k miles
Monroe, Ohio