Reply to: RE>Pre-made brake lines
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Date: 2/12/91
To: Jerry Kaidor
From: cobra@dtc.hp.com
The other day I noticed that one of the solid brake lines on my car has
several pinch spots in it so I've decided to replace it. The line is
3/16" diameter and a bit over 15" long and has several smooth bends. No
problem I figured, I'll just have a local brake shop make one up. But
after I removed it, I noticed that one end has a "bubble flare" of
unknown radius. This is actually formed in the line itself and is not a
ferrule. I've checked with a couple of local Brit car parts places but
none of them sell pre-made lines of the right length let alone with the
correct bends. I don't think bubble flares are uncommon but I'm not
sure if the radius is the same as found on similar lines made here in
the US. Can this type of flare be replace with a ferrule? Better yet,
are there parts suppliers that do sell this type of line (see diagram)
pre-made in various lengths? I'm pretty sure I figure out a way to
do the smooth bends myself.
You might be able to do the "bubble flare" yourself, Roland. The "bubble
flare" is actually an intermediate step in the creation of an "inverse flare".
Any inverse-flaring kit will do this. You can get an inverse-flaring kit at
any EXTREMELY WELL-SUPPLIED automotive tool shop. I think they also sell them
at the J.C. Whitney. I believe I paid $40 for mine. See, the inverse flaring
tool creates the bubble flare with one die, then you use another one to push in
the top of the bubble.
- Jerry Kaidor
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