Brake Line Tightness

[hrosenthal]

Before I fill up my brake reservoirs, I want to make sure that I've tightened everything correctly.
The banjo bolts are tightened to the specs in the manual, but t-fitting and connectors are firmly tightened, but no specific torque applied.
Is that sufficient? Or is there some magic technique I don't know about.
Thanks,
H

[Gumball]

Just enough so it doesn't leak is just right. To do that, just get them snug at first, then slowly tighten them in very small increments if there are any leaks. That's how I did this car and other restorations I've done and it always results in good, solid connections without any issues associated with overtightening - such as galling that can require fitting replacement. Just make sure that if the fitting is near over a painted part, you put something under (rag, paper towel, etc...) until you've bled the system and checked for leaks, otherwise the fluid can ruin the paint or powdercoat.

[skullandbones]

If you have flared the end of the line yourself, it is good practice to test fit it to the fitting seat and then tighten just enough (about a 1/4 turn). Then remove it and inspect the flare. It should be marked evenly on the entire round. Sometimes you will have to adjust the flare in the tool and even that out. But if your technique was good during all the flaring, you should not have too many situations like that. The OEMs and your good flares should not require much more than hand tight or as mentioned above you will deform the flare and create a leak. It's one of those many crafty things you learn by experience and by the time you have finished, you could do another car without any trouble. Good luck, WEK.

[hrosenthal]

I'm worried that I may have over tightened them. If I did, I'd have to drain all the brake fluid, cut and flare the tubes, and refill - correct? There is no easy way to do this, is there?

[Dan Babb]

I'm worried that I may have over tightened them. If I did, I'd have to drain all the brake fluid, cut and flare the tubes, and refill - correct? There is no easy way to do this, is there?


No easy way...brake lines can be a *****. If one of the banjo fittings leak, you might need a new washer (went through a few on cars I've done), so it's a timesaver to have a couple on hand.

[riptide motorsport]

It's very unlikely that you've over tightened them.

[GJerry]

I think the double flares are more forgiving than singles. I doubt that you over tightened them. I like Gumball's technique.

[CraigS]

I agree w/ riptide. I nearly always need to tighten a few more than I think I should have to but it's the only way to stop a leak. I have never heard of one damaged by over tightening it.

[hrosenthal]

Just an update - - I bled the brake lines and had a few small leaks. Fortunately, they were due to some loose connections which I left that way after reading the replies to my original post. The system is now bled and working properly.
Thanks for everyone's help on this.
H

[frankeeski]

One of the biggest things over looked when making brake line connections is using brake fluid as a lubricant. It really does help to properly seat the flared lines.

[riptide motorsport]

I just love a happy ending!!! :)

[Scott Zackowski]

Great discussion on brake fitting tightness!

Any guidelines of how often or how far apart to place clamps in securing the brake and fuel lines?

Mk IV, Complete kit, FFR 7304