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Mastering the Art of Double Flaring Brake Lines
A brake line flare guarantees a leak-proof connection without needing extra sealants or materials. For your braking system to function correctly, it should be sealed to allow equal pressure transmission without any failures.
The double flaring technique is recommended by the SAE for both air conditioning and vehicle brake systems. While it may seem challenging at first, double flaring brake lines is a task that even novice DIY mechanics can accomplish with ease.
Follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to double flare a brake line and discover just how simple the process can be.
1. Gather Your Tools and Materials
Like any mechanical task, flaring steel brake lines requires specific tools to achieve the best results. There are various tools available for flaring, including:
- Hydraulic flaring tools
- Manual flaring tools
- Leverage manual tools
For home DIY projects, manual tools are typically the most affordable and user-friendly option. Hydraulic and leverage tools, while more expensive and quicker, are ideal for those needing to make multiple flares in one day.
It’s essential to use proper flaring tools to ensure consistency and accuracy. A double flare brake line kit is affordable and readily available.
Additionally, you should research the correct fittings, flare nuts, brake line fluid, and sizes recommended for your vehicle as stated in your owner's manual or at a local auto parts store. Other necessary tools include:
- Tape measure
- Tubing cutter
- Gloves
- Tubing bender
2. Cut the Tubing
The next step is preparing the tubing or brake lines for flaring. Use the old brake lines or the line needing replacement as a reference, measuring and cutting each line accordingly.
Tubing cutters are the best choice; their blade should be tightened with each revolution around the cutting point. A hacksaw is not recommended for this task, as it cannot handle the strong metals involved.
For a successful flare, it’s crucial to make a perfect perpendicular cut. An uneven cut can compromise the fit of the flare with other fittings.
3. Clean the Cut Edge
After cutting the tubing, remove any burrs with a file, as these can interfere with the flaring process. The cut edge should not only be perpendicular but also smooth.
Be careful when deburring to avoid thinning the metal, which can lead to splitting during use. Ensure that the tubing is clean and free of debris before you start flaring. A regular screwdriver works well for deburring, but many tubing cutters include a built-in blade for this purpose.
4. Insert the Fittings
Next, slide the fittings onto the tubing so that they screw over the flare you are about to create. Make sure the fitting threads face the cut side. Failing to include the fittings now can complicate the process later.
Since most lines are typically flared on both ends, remember to add fittings pointing in opposite directions. Your tubing is now ready for flaring.
5. Set Up the Tubing
Secure the base of the flaring tool in a vise for easy handling, though it can also be used without one. Load the tubing into the corresponding hole and tighten the wing-nut clamps to hold it securely.
The flaring tool should hang over the edge of the workbench, allowing the brake lines to drop below as you work. Leave about 1 or 2 mm above the flaring base for an effective flare.
Each double flare brake line kit includes different dies. Ensure that the die you choose matches your tubing size, as each line has a specific corresponding die. The die has a step that determines the depth for creating the flare.
Tighten the wing nuts on the flaring tool to secure the tubing, then insert the die so that the stub slides into the brake line, securing the die in position.
6. Create a Bubble, Then a Double Flare
The first stage of creating a fuel line flare is the bubble flare, which precedes the double flare. Once everything is set, engage the locks over the base of the flaring tool and the die. Thread the press down until it contacts the base tightly.
Afterward, remove the press and die to reveal a bubble on the line. Place the press back onto the line, this time without the die, and thread it down until it's hand-tight to avoid damaging the flare.
The completed double flare will effectively seal the brake fluid and sit snugly against the fitting.
Conclusion
Learning how to double flare a brake line is straightforward if you follow these instructions. The next time you need to replace a brake or fluid line in your vehicle, you can confidently take on the challenge yourself. Should any complications arise, don’t hesitate to seek advice from experts nearby.
Precision is key to ensuring that your braking system functions effectively without fail. The initial attempts may seem challenging, but with practice, you’ll be able to create double flares with ease.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Not only is it cost-effective, but with careful execution, your flaring will perform reliably.
For more information, tips, and resources on battery maintenance, visit Car Care Lab or check out our dedicated section on Brakes.
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