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Leaky brake line
theduck - 19/5/12 at 06:42 PM

After having problems with a joint on my brake lines I have just replaced the join now only to discover a pinnprick hole in one of the hard lines. It's in a really awkward spot to get to, is my only option to cut out that section and replace it or is there a way to repair the hole?

designer - 19/5/12 at 06:45 PM

Never repair brake lines, always replace.

theduck - 19/5/12 at 06:50 PM

Thought as much

britishtrident - 20/5/12 at 06:47 AM

Splice in a section using proper joiner fittings not just a male tube nut into female.

rusty nuts - 20/5/12 at 10:07 AM

quote:
Originally posted by britishtrident
Splice in a section using proper joiner fittings not just a male tube nut into female.


I agree even if several manufacturers don't . Ford , Citroen Peugeot to name a few
Is the original poster using new brake pipe or recycling? I've never had any problems with actual pipes leaking using new brake pipe and a decent flaring tool. Was the leak at a bend the was kinked?

theduck - 20/5/12 at 12:44 PM

Yes was existing line that got kinked. My fault tbh.

black fingernail - 20/5/12 at 03:35 PM

I agree with Designer,
just replace the complete pipe, i think pipe joiners are a bit of a bodge. you can most likely re-use the unions, and copper brake pipe is as cheap as chips and very easy to bend, I usually use a screwdriver handle to bend around for tight bends.
with it being softer than cunifer or steel, make sure you support it well.

theduck - 20/5/12 at 04:26 PM

Provos the floor is sealed so replacing the line is almost impossible.

black fingernail - 20/5/12 at 05:03 PM

Oh dear!
If the pipe is fixed inside the floor you will have to use a joint, I hope you have enough room to get a flaring tool on the fitted pipe!, If the pipe is not fixed, then you can pull it through with a strong thin cord attached, and use this to pull the new pipe in.
it sounds like your in for some fun and games.

britishtrident - 20/5/12 at 05:40 PM

Not good idea to use copper pipe always use Kunifer (Cupro-Nickel) There is not that much difference in work ability between Kunifer and copper but there is a big difference in resistance to cracking.

[Edited on 20/5/12 by britishtrident]

theduck - 20/5/12 at 05:43 PM

Not sure what the current line is as it was done prior to me buying the car. Will have to get the car up properly and try and cutting back and flaring. If no luck I'll have to put a new line in somehow

pmc_3 - 20/5/12 at 05:48 PM

Did you manage to bleed the brakes in the end by swapping the calipers?