Amici,
In reworking (repairing) the brake system on Susan's race
spitfire I've ran into some of the PO modifications to the
stock system.
What started the brake rework was the decision to switch from
the single circuit master cylinder to the safer dual circuit
design as used on later Triumphs.
Fitting of the M/C was no problem and I was able to order new
brake lines from TRF for installing the dual circuit M/C and
PDWA.
Where I ran into problems is on the Tee fitting mounted on
frame where the M/C main line connected into. What the PO
had done was to modify each of the fittings connecting to the
Tee by the use of some kind of "T" shaped ferrule that appeared
to be crimped onto the end of the brake line in place of the
bulb type flare as originally found on these brake lines. Its
rather hard to describe the ferrules he used as I've never seen
anything like them before.
Where the real problem lies is how he connected the modified
brake lines to the Tee. On the line going to the left front
brake he modifed a standard AN type fitting by brazing on an
extension to the fitting to allow it to bottom out in the Tee
for proper sealing. Not pretty but I guess it works.
For the lines going to the right front brake caliper and the
line from the M/C he took a standard double ended AN fitting
and used an O-ring on the fitting where it screws into the Tee.
The fittings wern't long enough to reach the bottom of the Tee
where a metal to metal type seal could take place. He was
relying on the rubber o-ring to provide the sealing between the
fitting and the Tee. This particular modification I don't
like at all. As near as I can tell the Tee and the AN
fittings weren't designed for o-ring sealing.
I would like to convert back to the proper type flare on the
brake lines. My understanding is by using a standard double
flare brake tool I can create the same "bulb" type flare like
those used on the original brake lines. Am I right or wrong
here?!!
Thanks!
Brad
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