The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Stainless Steel Brake Line Question(s)

I just ponied up $200 for SS brake lines for my truck so the question is are they worth the extra dough? Advantages or disadvatages or cautions during assembly? I tried bending my own out of steel but just didn't like how they were turning out.

Funny you should mention this. I just started installing prebent SS lines on my '46 and have already found 1 and possibly 2 that aren't bent correctly. I have contacted the company I purchased them from and plan to send them pictures as soon as I am able.

My original steel lines were on my truck for 50 years before I replaced them. I did not use stainless. I bought a roll of brake tubing, cut and flared my own. If they last another 50 years and I get to change them again I will be happy - and well over 100 years old!

I agree with olblu. I tell people I have old vehicles to drive. I'm not building monuments to last forever.

I figured for an extra $25 I would go with the stainless lines. I have spent so much time getting the frame cleaned and painted that hopefully they will look good installed.

I bought standard lengths of steel line from NAPA so I would not have to attempt flaring or buying the tool. I had to bend a few circles, but it turned out great and spend about $70 bucks. I did paint them for some extra protection with high temp silver paint. Looks good.

Brad: You ARE aware I hope that stainless brake lines use different flares than regular steel lines? You can't just duplicate what you had in stainless I've been told.

Jim G

Actually, it can be done. But it requires a tougher tool that the ones you find at the flaps. Grigg and Denny have both had exellent results with one from Fed-Hill. There's an extensive thread on this under Tools. It also depends on the grade of stainless used. Seems most stainless line sold for brake line use can be double flared.

Regular steel is good, and will last a long time if you don't drive in salt.

Personally I like stainless lines for my trucks. I feel if I am going to spend the time to make the lines and make them look good I should have a more permanent material. I view steel lines as replaceable as a regular maintenance item when the time comes. I view stainless lines as more or less permanent, a lasting solution.

It is difficult to flare. For a little while you can get by with a good quality, but not a cheap, flare tool. If you make lots of lines then a top quality flare tool is a must, but plan to spend some money...

Another brake line option is http://store.fedhillusa.com/cuniferbrakeandhydline.aspx
A copper nickel alloy DOT approved brake line.
I have used it for two short lines on my truck, and I can see that I will be using it more in the future. Very easy to work with, and just as long lasting as stainless, possibly better all around than stainless.

This is one thread about 45 degree double flare tools for stainless https://www.stovebolt.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/404800#Post404800

Grigg