removing stuck vacuum lines
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Elder User
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Seattle
removing stuck vacuum lines
Is there a trick to removing old vacuum lines that just don't want to seem to come off? I'm not talking those 1/4" ones that are sticking straight out, I'm talking those puny 5/32" lines that are hidden behind 6 components and happen to be pointing towards the block so there's no way you can get muscle behind it.
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Elder User
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 827
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From: Seattle
Hmm haven't tried the screwdriver trick yet. I figure I'll gouge the crap out of the line and have to replace it. But I'll probably have to replace them anyway so I might as well dig in!
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,940
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From: Eastern WA
If you want to minimize the possibility of damaging a well aged rubber hose, use your fingers to remove the hose when it's warm. The screwdriver boogie will exert force on one side of it and can shread the hose. Been there, done that.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Englewood, CO
Twist it first to break it free. Then use the screwdriver boogie if you can't get a good grip on it.
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I cut the with a razor blade length wise then trim it back an inch. There is usually a couple onches of play in them. I dont like using force. I usually snap plastic connectors in half unless I use the razorblade first. I would love to have a scalpal to use but I dont think they have those at the autoparts stores.
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Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Southeast MI
I'd agree with all of the above, except that I USE all of the above if necessary after giving it a trial twist checking hose pliability. Also good to check other engine bay plastic connectors before the tricky stuff. If the easy stuff is too brittle, odds are the tricky stuff near the intake manifold(s) are begging to crack. Newer autos seem much easier to work on in this regard than the old rat's nests of the early emissions era. An old '80 Dodge Aspen comes to mind. Ugh.
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Elder User
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Seattle
Well I understand why it was such a pain in the rear to remove - the darn lines were melted to the fitting. In this case I just ripped the crap out of them and then had to scrape the residue off.