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Old 03-12-2008, 08:40 PM   #1
Black 81 Shorty
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Lightbulb Brake line question

Is it ok to use copper tubing as a replacement or does it have to be steel? I have some copper tub laying around and thought i better ask the pros about this one. Is it to soft to handle the pressure?

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Old 03-12-2008, 08:46 PM   #2
old Rusty C10
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Re: Brake line question

i was told it wasnt any good for pressure and is too soft and will get damaged easy . steel is available cheap i just bought two pieces and a union for my kids truck and it only cost me $10 to go behind the cab to almost by the rear wheels
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Old 03-12-2008, 09:34 PM   #3
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Re: Brake line question

yes it will split fairly easy.
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Old 03-12-2008, 10:06 PM   #4
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Re: Brake line question

Agreed. Copper is a big no-no.
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Old 03-13-2008, 08:35 AM   #5
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Re: Brake line question

Quote:
Originally Posted by Blackstone View Post
Agreed. Copper is a big no-no.
a BIG no no!!!
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Old 03-13-2008, 03:15 PM   #6
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Re: Brake line question

Not a good plan then
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Old 03-13-2008, 04:08 PM   #7
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Re: Brake line question

Black: As stated by others copper is an accident waiting to happen, so don't use it. It has been my expirence that once one line goes, others will follow until you have replaced them all. This is especially true if you use "bulk" replacement line, because (A) it's a wee bit softer and (B) it's not as well coated as factory lines.
After replaceing mine several times I got a set of stainless steel ones and re-did the whole truck and switched to DOT 5 silicone fluid because it isn't water soluable, lubricates better and stands up to lots more heat.
Go to "Classictube.com" and take a look around. A little pricey, but these lines are good, real good. You can't tell the difference between them and factory and they fit like a glove. Only downside is price (mine were about $250.00 American) and turn around time (about 6 weeks).
I thought about it and figure if I have to spend 3 or 4 hours replaceing lines that have blown out at a most inopportune time, I've made my money back. Jim
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Old 03-13-2008, 05:42 PM   #8
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Re: Brake line question

Great information Jim! Ive replaced every brake line other then the front to rear line, i was more curious whether or not copper was ok to use in this application but everyone has stated its not the smartest idea, i had to ask.

Ive seen people use Aluminum tubing on there brakes before and Aluminum is soft thats more of the reasoning to my copper tub question.
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Old 03-15-2008, 08:51 PM   #9
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Re: Brake line question

I found this page where the guy is using a compression fitting to union the old and new line together, i thought this was also a no no ??

http://volksweb.relitech.com/brakeln.htm
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Old 03-15-2008, 08:54 PM   #10
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Re: Brake line question

I picked up all my new lines and fittings today, my only issue is connecting the old line to the new because of the double flaring i have to do to my old line, i have a flaring tool but im not sure on the technique any tips or pics would be of great help.

Thanks
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Old 03-16-2008, 12:22 AM   #11
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Re: Brake line question

Try this website.
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Old 03-16-2008, 02:02 AM   #12
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Re: Brake line question

Great info on that site.

Thankyou
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Old 03-17-2008, 02:40 AM   #13
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Re: Brake line question

The brake job went well! thanks for the tips everyone!
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