Best way to go about replacing a metal brake line?

Robb235 · 08-09-2010, 10:38 PM

Hello all. For those of you who don't know me and didn't read my introductory thread, I bought a 2001 Alero GLS that was hit in the front. On my days off from work (I'm a full time college student and work part time at AutoZone) I've been rebuilding the front end of this car and it will soon replace my '95 Monte Carlo as my daily driver. I've got most of the major damage fixed, but one of the last remaining issues is the metal brake line that goes from the caliper to the ABS unit. It got smashed when the car was hit so it needs to be replaced.

My problem is, where do I find a replacement brake line? AutoZone sells brake line, however it is not pre-formed and I would have to use a tube bender and bend the metal myself (which I could see myself easily messing up). Another option would be to go to a junk yard and get the brake line. However, taking these lines off will be difficult due to the fact that they seem to be rusted on there pretty good. I've yet to break loose the brake line from the ABS unit on my current project car because it seems to be corroded on there. If anyone has any good suggestions as to the best way to replace this brake line I'd be glad to hear it.

colonel6632 · 08-10-2010, 12:27 AM

i did mine the junk yard way. if you went to a dealership, they may beable to bend/order you a new brake line

Cliff8928 · 08-10-2010, 01:21 AM

Is it one of the front lines? Then just bend it yourself. The dealer *might* sell them pre-formed, but they usually only sell the bundle that goes to the rear like that.

If you bend it yourself, use the CuNiFer line (the silver stuff that's more expensive). It won't corrode and it's easier to bend.

Robb235 · 08-10-2010, 02:42 PM

Yes, it's the front driver side brake line that needs to be replaced. I'll get the old one off the car and I'll see what I want to do from there. I have a feeling this may get ugly seeing as how the lines don't seem to want to be removed.

Monza · 08-11-2010, 05:16 PM

If the line is already ruined (so there's no going back) I cut the line near the fitting so I can use a boxend wrench or socket. My favorite setup is a socket with a T handle so I can keep from torque the fitting sideways if I have to turn it hard.