Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Brake lines

[jhnbrll]

So there I was minding my own business, driving along and I go to stop and the brake petal went right to the floor. I was able to limp it home. I find fluid coming from behind the fuel tank, so i remove the tank and find the brake line all corroded as well as the fuel lines. I want to replace all the lines, so my question is what is the best option for brake lines and fuel lines, and where do I find them? This is on my 94 not the 05.



Thanks John

 

[B.G. Smith]

First, it sounds like something didn't work like it was supposed to, the combination valve should have switched over and blocked off the rear brakes and you should have had front brakes. You can buy different lengths of brake line already made up at most auto parts stores, you will need a double flare kit if you splice into the old lines. The only replacement line I have seen is steel but something that is rust resistant may be available. bg

 

[jhnbrll]

I had some brakes but I wouldn't want to go a road trip with it. the petal still went almost to the floor. I saw some aluminum line for sale. How would they be? Or would stainless steel be better? I'm hesitant to put mild steel back there because of it being behind the tank, if I never had to take that out ever again I will be a happy man.



Thanks John

 

[B.G. Smith]

Aluminum won't handle the pressure. Might consider running the steel line through a hose or something and sealing up the ends to prevent corrosion??? bg

 

[Eric_77]

The stock steel lasted ~12 years and you know they work. I think getting the factory parts is the best route putting a covering over the line just asks for moisture to be trapped and a headache of more rusting lines.



braided stainless is probably the most flexible route (but most is stainless over rubber core that I would think would deteroite faster over time then steel tubing would)

 

[PGunther]

what body style is your truck?



i recently had Classic Tube remake all of the lines (both fuel and brake) for a 1997 Ram 3500, Cummins, 4x4, ext cab, long bed in Stainless Steel. they have all of the patterns and should be able to make you a set if you have the same body style. if you call, Ask for "Mike" in sales. he should be able to help you out.

 

[vssman]

what body style is your truck?



i recently had Classic Tube remake all of the lines (both fuel and brake) for a 1997 Ram 3500, Cummins, 4x4, ext cab, long bed in Stainless Steel. they have all of the patterns and should be able to make you a set if you have the same body style. if you call, Ask for "Mike" in sales. he should be able to help you out.

Great info! Last time I called classic tube (5-6 months ago) they didn't have any patterns for any 2nd gens. If you have to go through all of the work of replacing the lines, you might as well go with a stainless steel pre-bent kit. It might cost a bit more than bending your own steel lines, but I'm sure the overall install will be easier and cleaner. Sounds like I need to make a call to them.

 

[jhnbrll]

Thats a good idea. I have a 94 reg. cab long bed. Where is classic tube located? Phone #?



Thanks John

 

[jtwcummins]

Get the steel lines and paint them liberally with the plastic stuff used to insulate pliers, etc. Usually this can be purchased at most hardware stores. after install paint the connections with a light coat. This will stop rust from the outside. To slow down from the inside flush the brakes every couple of years.

 

[vssman]

Thats a good idea. I have a 94 reg. cab long bed. Where is classic tube located? Phone #?



Thanks John

Hey John,



Maybe we can have a Brake line install party??? :-laf Classic tube contact info:



www.classictube.com



80 Rotech DR

Lancaster, NY 14086

(800) 882-3711



Paul

 

[jhnbrll]

I love a good party. Whos bringing the hops and barley?

 

[vssman]

Maybe we can get hops & barley to put them in while we sit around and drink beer :-laf