Brake Lines and Hoses
Automotive braking systems use double walled steel tubing as their standard OEM brake line. These along with a flexible brake hose transmit fluid pressure from the master cylinder to the wheel braking units.
The line consists of two (double) steel tubes welded together at the seams and coated with tin or alloy to prevent corrosion. The ends are flared to match the seat that it is to be fitted with. The flares will be either ISO or double.
It's always best to replace the rusted or damaged line with preformed line designed for the vehicle. Never use compression fittings on brake lines. There are tools available to bend the lines and create the flared fittings when originals aren't available. Brake lines are fastened to the frame with clips and usually secured to the brake hose with a horseshoe clip.
Brake hoses are used between the wheels, the axles, and the frame. This allows for movement as the front wheels pivot or the axle moves up and down. These hoses can become brittle and cracked in time causing them to leak.
The hoses like the brake lines should always be replaced. Don't try to repair them. Even the brass washers shouldn't be reused, and should always be replaced with new ones. Remember use double walled or stainless steel brake line. This is because copper and other softer metals can not withstand the pressure. The same is true for the flare fittings. As usual, brake repair is a serious business and whenever replacing brake lines every precaution should be taken into consideration.
