Hard Line Replacement

[fmj78]

Question: is it possible to replace the hard line from the master cylinder to the frame union connector mid car without removing the body from the frame? item#21 part#100454 in this parts listing:

https://store.delorean.com/c-357-6-3-1-brake-lineshoses.aspx


Background:

Started tackling a stuck caliper after getting my 82 out of storage last week. After lots of PB Blaster, impacting, heating, drilling, and inventing several new curse words, I have the system mostly disconnected / removed. The one line I have not wrenched on yet is #21 in the linked diagram. I remember going through rusted line issues with the fuel system and getting flexible stuff from SpecialT after reading the procedure for replacing one of the lines said: "Remove body from frame." Has anyone replaced that #21 brake line? did you use the pre-bent part or fish your own tube and flare the ends?

I also have not successfully removed the rear hoses from the "mounts" although all hardware is off. Tricks on getting those out without dropping the transmission to swing a hammer would be greatly appreciated.

[ritztoys]

All I can say is get ready to make up new cuss words! :rant:

I've been there with the VERY stubborn flex brake hose(s), on mine I did the 'wiggle trick' to loosen the hex head of the brake line from it's frame female hex mount.

Lots of penetrating oil and mild hammering and Vise Grip pliers. (if you can even swing it, I couldn't)

The wiggle of the hex end was the only way I could remove mine. It also helps to remove the "Air deflector shields" near the end of the rear trailing swing arms.

Good luck, this is one of those jobs I hope not to do again!

[David T]

Typically you do not need to remove or replace the hard lines unless you damaged them. I would flush them all of course and replace the hoses. As you said, some of the hard lines require the body to be lifted or you leave the old line n place and run a new line a different way. Same for the fuel lines. Getting the old hoses out of the brackets can be difficult. I used a large "C" clamp.

[fmj78]

wiggle + PB Blaster (~1/2 can) + more cursing did the trick. Thanks!






All I can say is get ready to make up new cuss words! :rant:

I've been there with the VERY stubborn flex brake hose(s), on mine I did the 'wiggle trick' to loosen the hex head of the brake line from it's frame female hex mount.

Lots of penetrating oil and mild hammering and Vise Grip pliers. (if you can even swing it, I couldn't)

The wiggle of the hex end was the only way I could remove mine. It also helps to remove the "Air deflector shields" near the end of the rear trailing swing arms.

Good luck, this is one of those jobs I hope not to do again!

[ritztoys]

wiggle + PB Blaster (~1/2 can) + more cursing did the trick. Thanks!

I'm glad that technique of 'wiggling' worked for you, when you're finished have that beer and be sure to hug your car. (Don't forget the band-aids too, wife hates red stains on the floor!) :spank: