Replacement brake lines

I am in the process of upgrading my front brakes to disk and my rear brakes to 11 drum. I am looking at the brake lines and they look pretty beat up. I saw some PVF brake lines and I am wondering if anyone has used them before and what are the pros and cons. I am looking for a heavy duty brake line that's flexible and will stand up to the elements.


jeep toss

 

Supposed to resist corrosion better.

 

I like nicopp line. Resists corrosion, forms easily and flares nicely. I think the flares seal better but I've nothing to back that-just an observation-never seem to leak.

 

As I understand it, they are steel lines coated with a plastic, PVF. I have used the plastic-coated line and did not find it any easier to work with than regular zinc-plated steel. And, depending on your tools, the coating can be scraped off during preparation of the tubing.

If you are going to make lines, I (and many would agree) suggest you use Nicopp or Cunifer alloy lines. The material is somewhat more expensive, but it bends and flares easily, and will not corrode. A 25' roll of 3/16" Nicopp is reasonably priced on eBay, at about $30. You can also buy pre-made lines in Nicopp - my local Advance AP stocks it. Not as cheap as the bulk material, but useful if you need the fittings.

 

Tim, I took your advice and purchased a 3/16" X 25' coil of AGS NiCopp brake line and a fitting assortment kit. I have an excellent mechanic working with me so it will not be a problem bending, flaring and positing the new lines. Is there anything I may need to modify with the brake lines because of my upgrade to front disk and rear 11" drums?

 

No, I don't think so. I have not done the disk brake conversion, but I've replaced a bunch of brake lines. I just used the same size line as was there originally.

You can buy the wire guard for the 3/16" line from Summit Racing - http://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/tubing-armor - this will give a finished look to your lines and provide some additional protection for the tubing.

 

I just re did one line in my 48 and came to find out all the lines I needed to make. The flare was so close to the bend my tools wouldn't bend it with the flare so close. I had to go to harbor freight and buy the brake line bender that is shaped like pliers for about 11 dollars. It worked great and I had no problems with it. Just fyi if you are having a hard time bending close to the flare