2002 E250 5.4 van: For the metal rear brake line that runs along the driver’s side frame rail from engine compartment back to the rear axle, do you need to drop the gas tank to access it? I was at a pick-and-pull junkyard today and found a van with a really clean underneath and was hoping to grab the lines. But I couldn’t figure how to get them out without dropping the tank. Is it possible to disconnect them front and rear and kind of just pull them out along the frame channel? I assume they are secured somehow and this won’t work. I see a connector near the front door close to the fuel filter, so obviously it is not all one piece.

Likewise, to replace the lines does the tank need to be dropped?

The hard line at the rear diff recently rusted through and I had to have my mechanic do it because I didn't have the time. It was frustrating to not be able to do it myself since it was such an easy fix (and a $2 part at the junkyard). I figure it's only a matter of time before the rest of the line needs to be done, but he quoted a huge chunk of changed to replace the full length since he has to make all the lines, etc. Mostly all labor.

 

Yes I believe the tank has to be dropped.

 

Do yourself a favor and make your own lines with cupro-nickel. More corrosion resistant than stainless steel, and very easy to work with. Much better than plain steel.

 

Thanks all!

 

Don't play games with Brake lines.. you DO NOT have to drop the Tank ....that main line is around 14 ft.
Do exactly what WIRELESS said....buy a roll ( 25 ft ) , make sure you get the correct diameter.... and a good double flaring kit and re-do all of them ....I ussually keep the old fittngs if they are not stripped and re-use them...I also do not remove the old line ..I just cut it where needed and use plastic ties here and there to attach the new line to the old one.....that way the new line is solid