I am bringing my c5 to the mechanic next week for an install of new rotors, calipers, pads, shocks and brake lines and when I spoke with them they were a little leary about putting new lines in. They said it could be long, pain-in-the-a$$ job and they may not even want to do it ...does this seem accurate? I have new Goodridge stainless steel brake lines and my questions are:
1.) Is it a pain to install and how long would it take?
2.) What is the average labor cost to install brake lines?
3.) Is it worth upgrading them to the Goodridge and what's the benefit?
4.) Does anyone know a ball park figure for the labor cost of installing the rotors, calipers, pads, shocks (Koni FSD) and lines? I have all my own parts, so they said they have to charge more in labor because they aren't making any money on parts.

Sorry for all the questions, but I want to get an idea of the average cost and time so I don't get blind-sided with a huge bill and so I'm prepared incase the shop tries to screw me over . I'm excited because these are the first of many upgrades/mods..there will be many more to come!

 

Are you talking about replacing just the short lines between the caliper and the frame? I expect I could do everything you're mentioning in about 4 hours without a lift while drinking beer unless you're talking about replacing lines other than the short ones. You're not talking about a difficult job. Just time consuming. Shops usually go off of "flag" time though. In that case it could take them 3 hours but they would charge you the book time which could be 6. If it books 6, it should run you about 540.00

 

Hopefully, they do not think you are referring to the entire line from the master cylinder to each caliper. Make sure they know you are refering to the stock rubber lines at each wheel. It should only take an extra 5-10 minutes per wheel to swap them out. As far as benefit, the SS lines will make the most noticable difference. The brake pedal will feel firmer with them in place since they will not flex like the rubber lines do.

 

The real notice is in extended use over time. They have less fade (feeling) as the rubber, when heated, tends to become more pliable and the SS do not.

Road racers use them more than other groups of drivers since they use the brakes hard and frequently on the track.

A nice upgrade in general, especially since you already have the SS lines. They will make the brakes feel more firm/responsive, similar to porting a throttle body...they increase response, but not necessarily performance.

Speed