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How To

How to Splice Auto Steel Brake Lines

Contributor
By Don Bowman
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

When splicing a brake line due to corrosion or rusting, the entire line should be inspected for dangerous spots. There are times that a particular section has been damaged and splicing is the fastest and simplest way to repair it. When doing so, make sure that brass compression fittings are used because they will seal effectively under high-pressure conditions. Inspect the brake line thoroughly for pits close to the repair. The compression fitting must not have any imperfections where it is to be installed.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Brake line cutting tool
  • Set of wrenches
  • Tape measure
  • Can of brake fluid
  • Floor jack
  • Jack stands
  • Two compression fittings
  1. Step 1

    Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. Inspect and measure the section of brake line to be replaced. Cut out the damaged brake line.

  2. Step 2

    Measure the new brake line. Cut it 1 inch shorter than the brake line it is replacing. Disassemble the new compression fittings.

  3. Step 3

    Pick up the new brake line and starting with one end, install the compression fitting cap, threads facing out, over the line, followed by a ferrule, and finally the center section or pipe. Push the center section down onto the end of the line and while holding pressure toward the line, bring the cap and ferrule up to meet the center section. Thread the cap on the center section until it is hand-tight.

  4. Step 4

    Tighten the cap on the center section by using a wrench to hold the center and another wrench to tighten the cap. Do the same thing to the other end of the brake line, using the second compression fitting.

  5. Step 5

    Install the cap and ferrule left from the first compression fitting on the vehicle brake line. Push one end of the new brake line with the compression fitting center section into the vehicle brake line. Hold a little pressure to keep the vehicle brake line all the way in the center section and bring the cap to meet the center section. Hand-tighten, then tighten it as before with the wrenches. Do the same on the opposite side.

  6. Step 6

    Fill the brake master cylinder as needed to the proper level. Open the rear brake bleeder screw with the wrench and leave it open until a steady drip appears at the bleeder. Close and tighten the bleeder with a wrench. Repeat for the opposite wheel. Check the master cylinder one more time and correct the level.

  7. Step 7

    Pump the brakes several times and check the compression fittings for leaks. Tighten the fittings more if necessary and recheck for leaks.

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