Mopar 1843251 Tube-Steel

About every six months, inspect the flexible hoses that connect the steel brake lines with the rear brakes and front calipers for cracks, chafing of the outer cover, leaks, blisters, and other damage. Replacement steel and flexible brake lines are commonly available from dealer parts departments and auto parts stores. Only use steel lines or approved flexible brake hoses as replacement items. When installing the brake line, leave at least 3/4-inch between the line and any moving or vibrating parts. When disconnecting a hose and a line, loosen the fitting with a flare-nut wrench and remove the spring clip. When connecting two hoses, use open-end wrenches on the hose ends and ensure they are not bent, twisted, or strained. Steel brake lines are usually retained at several points with clips, so always remove and reinstall the clips (or new ones if damaged) when replacing a brake line to provide support and prevent vibration. After installing a line or hose, bleed the brakes.

The brake hydraulic system consists of flexible rubber hoses connecting the wheel cylinders or calipers and the rear axle fitting to metal lines running along the frame. If an inspection reveals a problem with a rubber hose or metal line, it must be replaced immediately for continued safe use of the vehicle. Before replacing a line or hose, determine the cause of failure and remedy it to prevent future failures. Components such as exhaust pipes can come loose and rub against the line, causing breaks or tears. Replacement steel and flexible brake lines can be found at dealer parts departments and auto parts stores. It is important to use genuine steel or approved flexible brake hoses as replacement items. When removing a brake line or flare-nut hose fitting, always use the proper flare-nut wrenches for loosening and tightening connections. Steel brake lines are usually held in place with clips, which should be completely removed before replacing the supported brake line. These clips provide support and prevent vibration that can lead to line fatigue and breakage. After replacing a line, the hydraulic system must be bled to remove any air bubbles.

About every six months, inspect the rubber hoses that connect the steel brake lines with the front and rear brake assemblies for cracks, chafing, leaks, blisters, and other damage. Use a light and mirror for a thorough check. If any hose exhibits these conditions, replace it with a new one. To replace the front brake hose, disconnect the brake line from the hose fitting without bending the frame bracket or brake line. Unbolt the hose from the frame using a Torx drive socket. Remove the inlet fitting bolt from the brake caliper and separate the hose from the caliper, discarding the sealing washers. Install the hose by attaching it to the caliper with new sealing washers, tightening the inlet fitting bolt to the specified torque. Connect the brake line to the hose fitting without twisting the hose, and install the bolt retaining the hose to the frame securely. Tighten the brake line fitting securely. Ensure there are no kinks in the hose and that it doesn't contact any part of the suspension. For the rear brake hose, disconnect the hose at the frame bracket using a back-up wrench, being careful not to bend the bracket or steel lines. Remove the U-clip with pliers and separate the female fitting from the bracket. Disconnect the two hydraulic lines at the junction block, then unbolt and remove the hose. Bolt the junction block to the axle housing and connect the lines securely. Install the female end of the hose in the frame bracket without twisting it, and install the U-clip retaining the female end to the bracket. Attach the steel line fittings to the female fittings using a back-up wrench, being careful not to bend the bracket or steel line. Ensure the hose installation did not loosen the frame bracket and tighten it if necessary. Fill the master cylinder reservoir and bleed the system. When replacing brake lines, use the correct parts and avoid using copper tubing. Purchase steel brake lines from a dealer or auto parts store. Prefabricated brake lines with flared tube ends and installed fittings are available. When installing the new line, ensure it is securely supported in the brackets and has sufficient clearance from moving or hot components. After installation, check the master cylinder fluid level, add fluid as necessary, bleed the brake system, and test the brakes carefully before driving in traffic.