Brake Line size
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
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Hmmm, I don't see why the brake lines need to be 3/16" instead of 1/4." When the brakes are applied, not much fluid moves through the lines, but the amount would be limited by lines that were TOO SMALL, rather than too big. One possible factor is bending radius - smaller diameter lines can be bent around a smaller radius, but if you have plenty of room, 1/4" lines should work just fine.
old and in the way
Joined: Jul 1997
Posts: 5,921
Likes: 1,052
From: Lovely Hueytown Alabama
with brake lines, you're not dealing with volume... you're wanting pressure.. the small lines give you a higher pressure. the standard master cylinder is designed to give adequate brake line pressure with 3/16" lines. it can't give that type pressure when trying to 'push' fluid thru 1/4" lines.
There is some really good brake information on C.H. Toppings website.. www.chtopping.com.
Brakes have been engineered for years with 3/16 lines... I don't think this is an area where I' like to experiment
later
john
There is some really good brake information on C.H. Toppings website.. www.chtopping.com.
Brakes have been engineered for years with 3/16 lines... I don't think this is an area where I' like to experiment
later
john
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
Likes: 0
The size of the brake lines has NO EFFECT on the pressure. That is due entirely to the size of the master cylinder.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 6,682
Likes: 12
From: Saskatoon SK Canada
No effect on pressure. Yes but volume changes. My 51 M-3 truck originally used 1/4" brake line.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Sep 1999
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From: Pensacola Florida
The size of the brake line WILL effect brake performance and pedal feel. You can go out and spend $30 - $40 on some race car chassis books, read them and understand it or just stay with 3/16" lines and no worries.
Thread Starter
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 463
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Yesterday was such a disappointment of learning the length of Brake Line I bought had metric threads....returned it today , got one w/ American threads, bent it and installed it for the rear. Rear done / awaiting braided brake lines from CCP for the front......so....It's coming along. Thanks for all the info.
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
Likes: 0
WRONG! Diameter of brake lines does not affect performance or "feel." The material that the flexible brake lines are made of - rubber or stainless-braided hose- affects feel. BTW, I have been a sportscar racer and crew chief for more than 30 years.
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 463
Likes: 0
went with 3/16" on rear.....front not installed yet as am awaiting delivery of brake lines from CCP.......will prolly go with at least 2" dia brake lines up front.
Just kiddin'......prolly 3/16" up front also.
Just kiddin'......prolly 3/16" up front also.
