How to Repair Rusted Steel Brake Lines
The brake lines on a vehicle can become rusted over time. Wet and damp weather can cause the brake lines to rust because of the metallic components they contain. Once brake lines rust, you must replace them immediately, as rusted lines can eventually cause holes in the line or deterioration of the line. Owners can repair their own rusted brake lines, purchasing the necessary parts and tools at a local auto parts store.
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Things You'll Need
- Metric line wrenches
- Standard line wrenches
- Rust penetrant
- Open-end wrench
- Drip pan
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Tube bending tool
- Hacksaw
- Brake fluid
- Measuring tape
Instructions
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1
Use a floor jack to raise the rear of the vehicle. Place jack stands beneath the vehicle for support.
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2
Inspect the rusted brake line. Start at the master cylinder and work your way to the rear of the vehicle. The master cylinder is located in front of the steering wheel on the metal firewall that separates the engine and the body of the vehicle. It is a metal cylinder with a plastic container on top that holds the brake fluid.
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3
Use a hacksaw to remove the rusted brake line from the vehicle. If the entire section needs to be replaced, the connectors need to be soaked in rust penetrant. Use a wrench to remove the bolts from the connectors, turning the bolts counter clockwise from the connectors. Remove the brake line.
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4
Use a standard measuring tape to measure the section that was removed. To ensure that you buy the proper brake line, take the damaged line with you. You will also need two compression fittings for each section that is replaced.
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Replace the section of brake line with the compression fittings. Remove the caps from the compression fittings. Make sure that you do not drop the ferrule. The ferrule is a ring inside the cap that helps align the brake line with the compression fitting. Install the cap on the end of the brake line, then install the ferrule. Place the center section of the compression fitting onto the end of the brake line. Using your hand, push the center section onto the brake line and install the cap. Tighten the cap as much as possible using your fingers. Use the open-end wrench to completely tighten the cap, while holding the center section. Repeat the same process on the other side.
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Fill the master cylinder with brake fluid and bleed the air from the lines. Attach a vinyl tube to the caliper's bleeder valve. Open the valve and have someone hold down the brake pedal until the brake fluid coming from the tube flows freely. Close the bleeder valve and remove the tubing. The fluid should drain into a pan; dispose of properly.
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Refill the master cylinder with brake fluid. Start the engine of the vehicle and slowly pump the brakes. Pause every few seconds when the pedal reaches the floor and while the brake pedal releases. Turn the engine off. Inspect the brake lines for any signs of leaks.
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Use the floor jack to raise the rear of the vehicle and remove the jack stands from underneath the vehicle. Lower the vehicle to the ground.
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Test the brakes to ensure proper brake line installation before attempting to drive on a public road.
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References
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