Brake Line Replacement - '72 Coupe

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Oct 12, 2009 | 11:05 AM

rdupler2

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Brake Line Replacement - '72 Coupe

Folks:

I have an all original '72 350/200 Auto Coupe and am currently doing brake maintenance. Have a couple of questions:

1. Can the brake line from the proportioning valve to the right caliper be replaced without removing anything major? It looks like it may be possible but you know how that is.

2. How about the short one going to the right caliper? Are the brake line connections to the proportioning valve easy to disconnect/reconnect?

Thanks in advance

Roger

Oct 12, 2009 | 12:08 PM

champs65

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From: Watkins Glen NY

Quote:

Originally Posted by rdupler2

#1 on my 69, yes.

#2 Do you mean the short one to the LEFT caliper?

Keep in mind this is on my 69, and I don't know if the valve block is the same on your 72.

Line connections are easy with a flare nut wrench, and a bit of heat for rustier connections.

Oct 12, 2009 | 12:51 PM

jotto

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From: Redruth Cornwall

Front passenger is a PITA but can be done. The correct flare wrench is very important as is a little heat.

I did all the brake lines on my 75 in a very confined space without removing any parts ( apart from the wheels.... ) but it was a struggle.

Oct 13, 2009 | 08:31 AM

muskegonbrake

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From: Muskegon MI

Both of those lines can be replaced without any major problems, just time and patience. Be nice to the prop valve and you'll be in good shape.

Oct 13, 2009 | 03:39 PM

rdupler2

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Thanks for the input!! Yep on #2 I did indeed mean the left caliper.

When ya'll say to use a little heat and the correct flare wrench, I assume you are referring to the removal of the old connection at the brace where the rubber hose to the caliper connects?

If you use heat, you're talking from a flame and not from a heat gun? And if flame then I assume that you have to add enough heat that the rubber hose is not usable again?

I tried to soak the brake line to rubber hose connection in liquid wrench....no good. Also tried a heat gun on it....again no good. Ended up rounding the nuts a little bit on both right and left and that is using a 3/8in tubing wrench.

Thanks again in advance for your help....

Roger

Oct 13, 2009 | 05:32 PM

Clams Canino

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From: Anderson SC

Remember, there's no extra points for suffering.

Just cut / break the old lines off close to the flare nut and use a good 6 point socket on the old ones. Save the line tool for the much easier re-assembly.

-W

Oct 13, 2009 | 10:48 PM

rdupler2

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Thanks Clams, that sounds like a good plan

Oct 13, 2009 | 11:03 PM

72LS1Vette

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From: North Easton Mass

Be careful with the heating. Brake fluid is not as combustible as gasoline but if heated enough it will ignite. If you are replacing the lines cut the old ones off and loosen the remaining fittings off the car.