How to Use a Brake Line Flaring Tool

1. How to Use a Brake Line Flaring Tool Working on your vehicle’s brake system can be daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it becomes a satisfying project. One essential tool you’ll need when replacing or repairing brake lines is a brake line flaring tool. Whether you're working with copper nickel brake line or fuel line tubing, mastering the use of a flaring tool will ensure a secure, leak- free connection. Let’s dive into how to use this handy tool effectively. Understanding the Brake Line Flaring Tool It flares the ends of brake lines to fit snugly into the fittings, with no leak and full pressure. There are different styles, but they all do the same job: shape the end of the tubing to get a good seal. For classic auto parts, especially those older or vintage, the right flaring tool for materials like copper nickel brake line is of prime importance. Step 1: Selecting the Brake Line Before you start you should select the right brake line tubing. In modern and classic car repair applications, the copper nickel brake line is a popular choice, as it provides superior corrosion resistance above the traditional brake line made of steel and is easier to flare. The similar fuel line tubing also requires special flare types to ensure correct compatibility with the fuel system fittings. So making the right tubing selection is always both safe and efficient in the long run.

2. Step 2: Measure and Cut the Line Using a tube cutter, measure and cut your brake or fuel line tubing to the desired length. Make sure the cut is clean and smooth. Any burrs or rough edges could prevent a proper flare, leading to leaks. Step 3: Setting Up the Brake Line Flaring Tool Install the tubing into the brake line flaring tool. Seat it properly and center it on the tool. Tighten the clamps of the tool to lock the tube against movement while you work. A well- secured tube is important to having a clean flare. Step 4: Flare the Brake Line After that, follow the manufacturer's procedure to flare the tubing. The process may include inserting a cone-shaped die at the end of the tube to create a flare. Pressure needs to be applied steadily so that the flare is complete. Be careful when using copper nickel brake line, as it is more flexible and will easily go over-flared if too much pressure is applied. Step 5: Check Your Work Remove the line from the tool and inspect the flare. The flare should be symmetrical, smooth in appearance, and will snugly fit inside the fitting. A flare that does not meet these standards may allow for leaks into the system when the line is under pressure. Conclusion Attaching the brake line using the flaring tool takes a little practice, but it is an essential skill in handling brake and fuel lines, especially in maintaining or restoring classic auto parts. If you give it the proper attention and the right tools, this will result in connections that hold up well without leaks, enabling your vehicle to continue running safely and smoothly.