How to Install Brake Lines

Whether you are repairing a vehicle or building a classic car, knowing how to install brake lines can be a useful skill to have. By following a few steps, you will find that it is a task that doesn’t require the services of a mechanic in order to complete it.

Step 1 – Gain Access

In order to install the brake lines effectively, you must gain access to the relevant area of the car. Position the car jacks beneath the end of the car that you intend to work on and operate the lever to lift the car enough to allow you to remove the tire. This will enable you to take out the lug nuts so that can get access to the braking system. If they prove stiff, spray some lubricating oil onto the fasteners to help get them moving.

Step 2 – Prepare New Brakes

You must decide how many brake lines that you need to install. It is prudent to do them two at a time so that they wear evenly and you can easily track when they need to be replaced. Ensure that the brake line you use is appropriate for the car as well as for the front or rear tires where you intend to fit them. Do this by reading the instructions provided with the brakes.

Step 3 – Remove Old Brakes

It may be necessary to remove the old brake lines before you are able to fit new ones. Before undertaking this process, use a rag to carefully wipe around the connectors and the brake line to ensure that there is no dirt present which can find its way into the braking system. Undo the connection by fitting two wrenches around the connectors that are fitted midway along the brake line. Where the brake line is fitted with connectors only at each end, only one wrench will be required for each end. Keep a rag to hand to catch the flow of brake fluid that will be produced by the loosening of the connectors.

Step 4 – Installation

The process of installing a brake line is done by reversing the removal process and can be begun by hand. After making sure the brake line is not kinked, twisted or snagged on any other parts of the car, position the two sides of the connector so that they are directly adjacent to one another. Thread them together by hand as tighten them as much as you are able before completing the process with wrenches.

Step 5 – Test

After completing the installation process, you will need to bleed the brakes. You can then check to ensure that there are no leaks from any of the components while the car is still raised with the car jacks. Do this by depressing the brake pedal for approximately 30 seconds and tighten any fasteners where leaks are noticed.