The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk 41 1/2 ton rear brakes

I cannot get the rear brakes to stop leaking. They leak at hollow bolt/brass connector area (where they connect to the wheel cylinder). I already tried new brass blocks and hollow bolts. For the sake of doing something, i just ordered more new copper washers. Any other suggestions? Thanks.

Keep in mind that most brass fittings are not meant to be reused.
I used new cylinders (from JC) when I did my '40, but all brass, brake hoses, (and of course copper washers ) were replaced. The steel line presses into the soft brass to seal. If reused, it's maybe 50/50 chance of getting it to stop leaking, although I know it has happened. Those pricy "banjo" fittings will probably need replacing. Well worth the $$$. Best of luck.

Is there a certain torque # for the hollow bolts?

Just checked my '40 shop manual, and don't see any mention of tightness. There probably is a spec., maybe someone else has the info???

Are you by chance using silicone brake fluid? I have heard about problems with leaking when silicone brake fluid is used.

Yes, i'm using silicone fluid. This small task is getting more and more frustrating.

Interesting. I had never heard that about silicone DOT-5 fluid. I run DOT-5 in my '40 Ford (sorry guys, but it IS Chevy powered!,) and have never had a leak, but again, everything was new 20 years ago. But my truck is DOT-3. One additional comment, I have noticed that with silicone fluid, you will not get as hard of a pedal, but it stops fine and won't absorb water, etc.

Do you think the brass blocks can be reused?