Brake line thread question

[timsz]

Should you put anything on the threads of brake line nuts, either to help with sealing or to help with removal in the future? Thank you, TimsZ

[240260280z]

I put antiseize just up to the first thread.

[ajmcforester]

I've used a little anti seize on the last threads. I try to avoid the threads near the mating surfaces of the joints so it does not mix with the brake fluid.

[madkaw]

Threads should not be sealing anything when it comes to brake lines. I would be more apt to cleaning mating surfaces with SS wire brush if possible.

Not sure if I agree with anti- seize on brake lines.

[240260280z]

Stephen, visit me and we'll do maintenance on a daily driver here Your thoughts will change..... we are masters of broken bolts and stuck nuts here due to corrosion.... .but you bring an excellent point...preventive maintenance like applying anti-seize is subjective to where you are driving, the frequency, and the climate.

[zKars]

Another bizarre idea. How about using brake fluid to lube the threads?

Apply NO sealant of any other kind to brake fittings due to the contamination risk issue are mentioned. SS bristle bushes are the best for cleaning as mentioned.

Only crazy people like us who take our cars apart every weekend for fun worry about the brake nut threads getting corroded. If you are worried about it, add the step of adding a few drops of brake fluid to each line nut at your regular lube and oil change interval to keep them fresh and accessible in case the urge ever hits you to change rear brake calipers while picnicing.

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[madkaw]

The original brake lines on these old Datsun cars are actually made well as far as materials. I have seen a LOT worse on modern day vehicles. The cladding really helps with corrosion.

I have always had best luck with using vise grips loosening brake lines and have hardly ever boogered up one that way. I have found that "popping" them loose with my hand smacking a QUALiTY pair of flat jawwed vise grips is the best solution for stuck lines. Flare wrenches are okay but can still round a flare nut.

Yes these are a royal PITA to break loose, but thats one nut don't want coming loose.

[timsz]

Thank you very much. Didn't think about maintenance every once in a while. Lubing threads with brake fluid. TimsZ

[EuroDat]

I use a little amount of red rubber grease (vegetable based grease) for the threads. Since then I have not had problems removing brake lines.

Mineral grease doesn't mix well with brake fluid and is bad for the rubber. The red grease is also use on all the rubber compounds in the brake system.

I have'nt used brake fluid to lube the threads before. DOT 3 Brake fluid is hydroscopic, meaning it will absorb water. If you use it on the threads, won't it attract water and speed up corrosion in the fitting?

Chas

Edited December 17, 2013 by EuroDat

[geezer]

On my 4X4 trucks that were run mercilessly in extreme weather and regularly submerged in the muck, I would always run a small amount of axle grease around brake fittings but only after they had been tightened. Never had a problem with brake contamination or loosening fittings. I imagine that would be a good solution/precaution for any vehicle.

I like the vise grip method of loosening as well. It is worthwhile taking the extra time to ensure slippage does not occur. Another thing I do occasionally when using flare wrenches is to dip them in a tin of valve lapping compound, preferably coarse. That gives a lot more grip and less chance of slippage.

Edited December 17, 2013 by geezer
spelling

[zKars]

Brake fluid absorbing water and causing rust... well, see post #6. Maintenance. Also, I think it absorbs it, its not free to cause rust. And for a long time, there is more brake fluid than water...

Check out these cool brake and fuel tools.

Specialty Products : S.U.R.&.R. Auto

Especially LW700/750/800 Flex Head Ratcheting Line Wrench Sets

Gotta get me some of these and stow the vise grips for good.!!

Merry Christmas!

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