Brake lines can become an eyesore on your car, and can also be a safety hazard. If you notice that your brake lines are starting to look old and tired, it’s time to replace them! Here are four tips on how to flush out old brake lines without any drama.
What Are Brake Lines?
Brake lines are used to stop a car from moving. They’re made up of metal pipes that run from the front to the back of the car. When you press down on the brake pedal, the pressure on the brake lines causes the metal to heat up and create pressure. This pressure prevents your car from moving
How to Flush Out Old Brake Lines
If you’ve got old brake lines lying around your garage, it’s time to flush them out. Brake fluid can slowly seep down into the line and create a hydraulic lock, preventing your car from moving. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the engine.
2. Remove the wheel and the tire.
3. Detach the brake line from the caliper by removing the clip or bolt that holds it in place. Be careful not to pinch the line between your fingers when removing it!
4. Pour a gallon of water into a bucket or large plastic container and drop in the brake line. Make sure all of the fluid is submerged and wait for 10 minutes to allow any air bubbles to rise to the surface.
5. Lift out the brake line and pour any remaining water out of the bucket or container. Replace the brake line and wheel/tire combo, and reattach everything according to manufacturer instructions.
What to Do If Your Brake Lines Are Frozen
If you’ve ever experienced brake line freezing, you know just how frustrating it can be to get your car moving again. Here are some tips on how to flush out old brake lines and get your car moving again.
1. Remove any obstructions from the brake lines. This includes anything that could get in the way of the brake fluid flowing freely (such as debris).
2. Use a plunger or vacuum cleaner to suck out any trapped water and debris from the brake lines. Make sure to go down as far as possible, and avoid touching the actual metal wires themselves.
3. If necessary, use a hose to spray a degreaser or brake cleaner onto the metal wires near the brake fluid reservoir. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to move the car.
4. If none of these methods work, call a tow truck or mechanic to take your car in for repairs.
What to Do If Your Brake Lines Break
If your brake lines break, you’ll need to flush out the system to prevent dangerous brake pedal travel. Here are three steps to follow:
1. Disconnect the brake line from the caliper.
2. Remove the hose from the caliper.
3. Pour a bucket of water into the brake line and let it flow down the pipe until it reaches the caliper. Use a plunger to push all debris and mud out of the line. Replace the hose and tighten it using a wrench.