C3 Brake line
Can anyone recommend a source for the main steel brake line (70) leading from the distribution block to the rear? Recently I purchased a complete set of brake lines and fuel lines from a leading vendor and found that this part does not fit properly. The fuel lines were fine, the front brake line was fine but the rear line was not bent properly at the distribution block. The height of their line from the frame rail to the top of the distribution block is too tall. Meaning, when the line is screwed into/connected to the top of the distribution block, the line does not sit or rest on the top of the frame. In fact, it's about 3/4" above it and that obviously doesn't allow the attaching clip to be used. Has anyone purchased recently and found one that fits without having to be cut, flared, and rebent?
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Re: C3 Brake line
hate to break it to ya - but it is going to be a "crap shoot" no matter who you buy from.
I got my lines from paragon and they fit ok, but I still had to modify them some to have the factory bends that were in the old ones I took off the car.
I had nearly the same issue on the brake line, you will need to make some adjusting bends prior to the kick-up area to get the angle and fit you are looking for. -
Re: C3 Brake line
Bill,
I also had to make several bend adjustments to the lines but can't in this particular area. As you know, it's an upside down "U" and the bends are too close. I would have to straighten completely, remove the fitting, shorten, and reflare. That's more than one would expect after paying for the line. Did the one you bought from Paragon connect to the top of the distribution block and then rest on the side frame rail as it headed reward?Comment
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Re: C3 Brake line
Tom,
I think all C3 lines attach to the top of the block.
I made my adjustments down low where it makes the angle bend by the kick-up. I worked with the line that had the spiral winding around it. If you take your time you can make up that height difference work the line below the U bend.
It did rest near the side frame rail, but did need some adjusting.
I honesty think that they all do.
If you have your original intact, use it as a pattern for adjusting the reproduction line. I think that Paragon tools their own lines - I heard they are much better than Zip, Ecklers CC etc...
Hope this helps some.Comment
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Re: C3 Brake line
I would be surprised if Paragon tools their owns brake lines. But you could call and ask. They normally have excellent products.
If I recall correctly, most folks are selling brake lines made by
1. Classic Tube
2. Inline Tube
3. The Right Stuff
4. Fine Lines.
I purchased a complete brake set for my 1967 from DR VETTE (now CSSB in Florida), and they were made by Fine Lines or The Right Stuff. I had some fitup issues, but worked through them.
You may want to call the company you bought from and see who actually made the lines for them. I have heard Classic Tube and Inline Tube have excellent brake line products.
LarryComment
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Re: C3 Brake line
Hmmm,
Had the same problem on my 70. I went to the local Corvette shop where he had 3 or 4 from which to choose. I brought my original and found one that was almost perfect.
Funny thing is they were all from the same manufacturer.
If you have a good local shop maybe you can do the same thing.
BillComment
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Re: C3 Brake line
Tom, If you have your original brake line that is in question (assume the bends are still correct) you may want to contact a line vendor and see if they will compare your line with theirs or possibly custom make the line for you. My experience with some OEM type vendors is they are willing to look at your original stuff and compare it to their piece. I've even had them adjust their product based on my original device pattern. You may only need the section that is in question if the remainder of the bends are correct....
Its worth a try.....Comment
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