Making Custom Brake Lines A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to automotive maintenance and performance tuning, few modifications are as crucial as the brake system. The ability to stop your vehicle safely and efficiently should always be a top priority for any car enthusiast. One of the upgrades that can drastically improve your braking system is the installation of custom brake lines. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of custom brake lines, the materials needed, and a step-by-step guide on how to make them.

Why Custom Brake Lines?

Custom brake lines offer several advantages over factory options. First, they are typically made from high-quality materials that provide better durability and resistance to corrosion. Unlike standard rubber lines, which can swell under pressure and degrade over time, custom brake lines are often crafted from stainless steel or braided materials that retain their shape and performance under extreme conditions.

Secondly, custom brake lines can be tailored to fit specific vehicle setups. Whether you're adding a lift kit, modifying your suspension, or simply want to enhance the aesthetics of your engine bay, custom lengths and fittings can help ensure that your brake lines perform optimally and look good.

Materials Needed

Before you get started, gather the following materials

1. Brake Line Tubing Stainless steel or copper-nickel tubing is recommended for durability. 2. Fittings Various types including flare fittings, compression fittings, and any specific connectors that fit your vehicle. 3. Brake Line Bender To ensure sharp bends without kinking the line. 4. Tube Cutter For clean cuts on your tubing. 5. Flare Tool To create the necessary flares on the tube ends for a secure fit. 6. Brake Fluid Ensure you have the correct type for your vehicle. 7. Safety Equipment Gloves, goggles, and any other necessary protective gear.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Planning and Measurement Begin by measuring the existing brake lines you want to replace. Use a tape measure to note the length and bends, and consider how you might alter these dimensions for better performance or aesthetics. Sketch a rough diagram to guide your process.

2. Cutting the Tubing Using the tube cutter, cut your brake line tubing to the desired lengths as per your measurements. Make sure to make clean cuts for a better seal.

3. Creating Flares Using the flare tool, create flares on each end of the tubing. This is crucial for connecting to the fittings securely. The most common type is the double flare, especially for automotive applications. Follow the tool’s instructions carefully for the best results.

4. Bending the Tubing With the brake line bender, gently bend the tubing to match the curves of your original lines. Take your time to avoid kinks, as these can compromise the integrity of the brake line.

5. Fitting Installation Once you have your custom lines bent and flared, attach the fittings. Be sure they match your vehicle’s existing brake system connections. Tighten them firmly, but avoid overtightening to prevent stripping the threads.

6. Installing the Brake Lines Now, install your custom brake lines onto the vehicle. Take care to follow the original routing to avoid interference with suspension components or other parts of the vehicle. Secure the lines with the appropriate clips or brackets.

7. Bleeding the Brake System After installation, it’s important to bleed the brake system to remove any air that may have entered during the process. Follow the recommended bleeding procedure for your vehicle, and make sure to use fresh brake fluid.

8. Testing Finally, test your brake system. Start your vehicle and gently apply the brakes to ensure everything is functioning smoothly. Check for any leaks around the fittings and ensure that the pedal feel is firm.

Conclusion

Custom brake lines are a worthwhile investment for any car enthusiast looking to enhance performance and maintain safety. While the process may seem daunting, with the right materials and careful attention to detail, making custom brake lines can be a rewarding DIY project. Remember to prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re uncertain about any step in the process. Happy wrenching!