I broke the upper steel line (twisted) as I was doing a radiator removal. The line is very long going back to the transmission. I have no idea of what to do to fix this. Any suggestions?

 

Welcome to FTE. You can do a few things 1) temporarily cut out the damaged section and replace it with rubber hose and clamps... 2) Replace the damaged section with tubing or replace the entire line when you have time. It is not a hard job to do. The lines are for transmission cooling . '92

 

The damaged section is too close (1/4") to the fitting. Any idea how I can separate the steel line from the fitting or where I can purchase a new fitting? (Web searches have been fruitless)

 

Unthread the fitting from the radiator. GO to your local Auto-parts store, they will have what you need

 

Sorry Brad... Tried that and exhausted all the stores but one... I plan on hitting that one up Monday. They all say the dont have one that will fit. Looking for a place to order the fitting or a way to remove the twisted steel tube from the fitting... I am a bit fearful just to start cutting it.

 

I have found some awesome stuff at the junkyard.... not a bad place to find what you need.

 

Seriously? Your auto parts stores dont cary 5/16 or 3/8 lines?

 

Yeah, it's just a standard steel line. You will have to bend it to fit your application. You don't need a tool to bend it, just don't try to make a real sharp bend or it will kink.

 

If you are trying to buy a new fitting then why are you scared to cut the old one up.
The reason why it's hard to find a new nut is because ford used a deep fitting. Hardware store or parts store will have a brass fitting with the 1/4npt and 3/8 brake line flare. Then you get a 3/8 compression coupling and a piece of 3/8 brake line and hook it together.

Of you cut the flared part off the twisted line/fitting mess with a hack saw, then use a drill bit to either drill it through, or try tapping it out with a hammer. It's just going to take a little time and it will be reusable. Then a compression fitting and new brake line to finish the project.