Straighten Up Your Brake Lines: A Foolproof Method for Coil Control

Brake line coils are essential components of any vehicle’s hydraulic braking system. However, they often come coiled up, making them difficult to install. Straightening them is crucial for proper brake line installation, ensuring optimal braking performance. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary steps and techniques to effectively straighten brake line coils, empowering you to tackle this task with confidence.

Materials You’ll Need

• Brake line coil
• Brake line bender
• Brake line flaring tool
• Measuring tape
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and Cut the Brake Line

• Determine the desired length of the brake line and measure the coil accordingly.
• Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the brake line to the measured length.

2. Remove the Coil

• Carefully uncoil the brake line by hand, avoiding kinks or bends.
• If the coil is particularly tight, use a heat gun to gently warm it up, making it easier to uncoil.

3. Straighten the Brake Line Using a Bender

• Insert one end of the brake line into the brake line bender.
• Gradually bend the brake line until it is straight, using smooth and consistent movements.
• Avoid using excessive force or bending the line too sharply.

4. Flare the Brake Line Ends

• Use a brake line flaring tool to create a flared end on each end of the brake line.
• This flared end will ensure a secure connection to the brake fittings.

5. Check for Straightness

• Place the brake line on a flat surface and visually inspect it for any remaining bends or kinks.
• If necessary, use the brake line bender to make further adjustments until the line is perfectly straight.

6. Install the Brake Line

• Connect the flared ends of the brake line to the appropriate brake fittings on the vehicle.
• Tighten the fittings securely using a wrench.

7. Bleed the Brake Lines

• Once the brake line is installed, bleed the brake lines to remove any air trapped in the system.
• This will ensure proper brake function and prevent spongy pedal feel.

Advanced Techniques

Using a Flaring Cone

• For a more precise and professional flare, use a flaring cone instead of a flaring tool.
• The flaring cone provides better control and ensures a consistent flare angle.

Double Flaring

• In some cases, double flaring is required to create a stronger and more secure connection.
• Double flaring involves creating two flares on the brake line end, providing additional surface area for the fitting.

Using a Coil Spring

• If the brake line coil is particularly stubborn, insert a coil spring into the coil before uncoiling.
• The spring will help to keep the coil from kinking or bending as you straighten it.

Safety Precautions

• Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with brake lines.
• Brake fluid is toxic, so avoid contact with skin or eyes.
• If brake fluid comes into contact with your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
• Never use damaged or kinked brake lines, as they can compromise the braking system’s integrity.

Troubleshooting

Brake Line Kinks

• If the brake line kinks during straightening, discard it and start with a new coil.
• Kinks can weaken the brake line and lead to leaks or failures.

Improper Flare

• If the brake line flare is not properly formed, it will not create a secure connection.
• Use a flaring tool or cone that is specifically designed for the type of brake line you are using.

Air in Brake Lines

• If air gets trapped in the brake lines, it can cause a spongy pedal feel and reduce braking performance.
• Bleed the brake lines thoroughly to remove all trapped air.

Final Note: The Importance of Straight Brake Lines

Straightening brake line coils is a crucial step in ensuring the proper functioning of your vehicle’s braking system. By following the steps and techniques outlined in this guide, you can effectively straighten brake line coils and enjoy optimal braking performance. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with brake lines.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I straighten a brake line coil without a bender?

• While it is possible to straighten a brake line coil without a bender, it is not recommended. Using a bender provides more precise and consistent results, reducing the risk of kinking or bending the line too sharply.

2. How do I know if my brake line is straight enough?

• Place the brake line on a flat surface and visually inspect it for any bends or kinks. If the line is not perfectly straight, use the brake line bender to make further adjustments.

3. What is the difference between single and double flaring?

• Single flaring creates a single flare on the brake line end, while double flaring creates two flares. Double flaring provides a stronger and more secure connection, but it is not always necessary for all brake line applications.