Brake lines transfer the hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the wheel brakes. When we exert force on the brake pedal in a hydraulic braking system, the brake transfers hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers. The calipers cramp down on brake rotors slowing down the vehicle. The hydraulic fluid carried through brake line making the line a rather critical component in the braking system. If your brake lines fail to work, then your brake system is doomed to fail. So make sure you get checked regularly by the best brake repair Phoenix has to offer.
If there is a leak in the brake lines, the loss of brake fluid will cause a reduction in pressure. This leads to brakes failure. In addition, brake fluid is corrosive. So, fluid drops can spoil other components of the braking system.
Brake lines consist of two tubes that are coated with alloy or tin to prevent corrosion. The tubes are welded together at the seams.
Types of Brake Lines
Depending on the design, brake lines are classified as brake hoses or brake pipes.
Brake Pipes
Brake pipes are made from steel with a zinc coating to prevent corrosion.They are rigid and located in wheel arches, engine compartment and wheel arches. They vary in length, diameter, shape and connection fittings.
Brake Hoses
They offer a flexible connection between wheel brakes and brake pipes. Brake hoses transmit hydraulic pressure to calipers and wheel cylinders. They are made from special rubber on the inside and outside with a special fabric sandwiched in between. Also, there are braided stainless steel hoses which have a long life span.
Servicing
Brake hoses should undergo regular inspection. If they get damaged or porous, they can allow moisture to get in and mix with brake fluid. This may affect the braking effect or even cause total brake failure. They are subject to natural wear. If you notice a decline in braking effect, it is prudent to have the hoses checked and replaced if necessary.
Rusted or damaged brake hoses should be removed.
Brake hoses are installed between the frame, axles and wheels. This allows movement as the axle and wheel pivot move up and down. Therefore, the hoses can crack or become brittle.
To prevent leaks, brake lines are flared at the end. Most auto shops will have already flared brake lines. However, you can easily find a flaring kit. The quality of the flair determines how well the tube will fit the part you are attaching it to. Another important brake line tool is a tube cutter. During repair, tube cutter cuts through the line evenly.
The worst enemy of brake line lifespan is abrasion. The line develops corrosion when the external coating is removing by debris. The corrosion then finds its way to the undercoating compromising the integrity f the liens.
Conclusion
If you notice leaking braking fluid, it could be a sign of damaged brake lines. To replace a line brake, you will have to remove the line from the master cylinder and brakes. Then you should drain the brake fluid and then bleed the brakes. Brake bleeding basically means removing air that may have gotten inside the line. To ensure that this is properly done you should call a qualified mechanic. While you can do brake line replacement yourself it easier to call a professional mechanic.
Read more about your car’s brakes: