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I am new to posting here but have been reading up on this site since buying my 76 about a year ago (lots of good advice). I am in the middle of a complete brake system overhaul. I bought the remanufactured calipers (stainless steel o-ring) from Ecklers and all new brake lines. Everything has gone fine except the front passenger steel brake line. I bought the pre-bent steel line, but cannot get the old one out. I got the part of the line out that comes from the Brake Proportioning Valve and took the bolts off the cross-member. Where I am struggling is where the line goes back up over the frame on the passenger side and out to where it attaches to the hose. I have tugged and pulled (and cussed) with no success. In reviewing the brake diagram it appears that I may be missing a bolt...but I don't see it on the car. Below is the diagram and the bolt in question. Does anyone have any advice or knowledge as to where this exactly is? Does it help if the wheels are off the ground (i.e. does it open some space up to be able to remove and put the new one in)? It just seems like such a tight fit, but I have read where others have done it with the body still on the frame.
Hi t,
WELCOME!
I'm glad you're here!
The brake line clip you circled is up under the a-arm cross shaft. That may be making it difficult for you to locate.
You can see it in this picture taken from the driver's side of the engine compartment.
Regards,
Alan
Thanks for the pictures, they certainly helped as I was able to find and remove the bolt. I am still having trouble just getting the line out due to the tight fit. Donnie I think your pic might help on that front as I can see how it weaves through there. Anyone else have any secret tips they had to removing it other than pulling the motor?
Hi tj,
Take a close look at Donnie's picture and the one I posted. Specifically at the clip you asked about.
Notice Donny's is turned 'down' from the bolt, while mine is turned 'up'.
This has to have an effect on how the line fits and also how it connects to the fitting for the transition to the rubber brake line.
So, check to see which position works best for your line.
Regards,
Alan
Update: This weekend I was able to get the car up on a lift. It took awhile, but I was able to yank the old line out and fish the new one in. With all new calipers and new shockers, it feels like a totally different car.
Okay, I know this is an old thread, but I am looking at the same task. How tough is it to replace this line with the front end up on jack stands? How much stuff do I need to pull to snake this line in? Any tips would be appreciated.
Hi 128,
Replacing the line isn't too bad a job.
What may be difficult will be getting the flare connections loose at each end.
Having the car on jack stands gives good access but be careful you don't jerk the car off the stands.
Good Luck.
Regards,
Alan
Marc - let me know if you could use a second set of hands. Happy to help out and also be able to use it as a dry run for myself later.
Originally Posted by 128racecar
Okay, I know this is an old thread, but I am looking at the same task. How tough is it to replace this line with the front end up on jack stands? How much stuff do I need to pull to snake this line in? Any tips would be appreciated.
Alan- thanks for the advice. A miracle occurred, and after two weeks of PB Blaster and heating with a torch, the metal fittings at the rubber brake line ends broke free. A stroke of luck, as the fittings were equally stuck at the the distribution block as well, so changing out both front lines would have been a bear anyway. Once I get my calipers back from Lonestar, I can button things back up and get it on it;s (my) maiden voyage.
A quick plug for this handy little vise grip tool designed for nuts- got the job done when my trusty flare wrench couldn't get a grip.
04-05-2016, 01:55 PM
Front Brake Line Won't Budge - Hidden Bolt?
