Brake Line Question

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Feb 13, 2012 | 09:03 PM

lwclark

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From: Austin, TX

Brake Line Question

I'm working on my '60 F100 with original brakes. The hard line from the master cylinder down to the junction fitting on the frame rotted and broke. That line, like the clutch line, has a hose section in the middle. I don't see that line with a center hose section in any of my catalogs (LMC, MACs, Sacremento).

Can I just replace it with a hard line?

Thanks for any advice.

Feb 13, 2012 | 09:25 PM

critterf1

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From: Newport, N.C.

Yes you can. Be sure to "coil" it so it doesn't crack.

Feb 13, 2012 | 09:54 PM

lwclark

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From: Austin, TX

Thanks Critter. Will do.

I don't get why there would be a flex line there. Is there that much movement between the cab and the frame?

For reference, this is the line I'm talking about:

Feb 13, 2012 | 10:23 PM

ibuzzard

See A Man About A Horse

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From: Mariposa, Ca.

If you save those pieces,a good hose shop should be able to make a replacement.

Feb 14, 2012 | 04:38 AM

3414

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Joined: Jun 2008

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From: N E Ohio

You would be surprised at how much movement there is, especially under acceleration. Try some auto parts stores. Take the old line in and if they do not have a listing for it, match it up to something close.

If you must use hard line, go with a coil of at least 4" diameter, but 2 coils would be better.

Feb 14, 2012 | 05:21 AM

Walston

Cargo Master

Joined: Aug 2004

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From: Greenville, SC

I agree with both opinions. I think i would be easy to go to NAPA and find a hose that you can connect brake line to. The connections on the hose don't matter, you just need the tubing fittings on the end of the tube to match the original. That being said, a couple coils should work fine. I would say the hose is mostly a vibration dampener to prevent leaks at the fittings more so than movement. I think the hose set up would look better.

The clutch is a different story. The engine moves quite a bit compared to the frame and needs a hose.

Feb 14, 2012 | 03:31 PM

spurredon

FTE Legend

Joined: Jun 2004

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From: Upstate NY

I replaced my original hose with coils. I wrapped the line around a spray can three or four times. I did the same thing with the clutch. If you take your time and are careful, you can bend that stuff and have it look decent. I tried to keep the coils all even and square and match up with the clutch line. I am pleased with it!