All my brake lines are SS AN fitting and I have no problems there, But the SS flex lines are a pain in the a**. Three of the four flex lines always have a small drop of fluid weeping from the connection. I can't tighten them any more. Anyone have a solution?
I've had all my SS brake lines made by Earl's in Indy and no problems. Over or under tightening could be the cause. Also keep in mind there is a maximum bend radius of around 3", and may cause distress at the connections if too tight.
The only problem I ever had with them was added pedal pressure caused master cylinder and caliper seal failure. I ***ume you used copper washers?
When you say 'the connection' do you mean where the hose fits into the fitting, or at the AN flare where the nut screws onto the male flare? If the former, either (a) the hoses have been ***embled incorrectly or (b) the teflon liner has been kinked or strained somehow at the fitting. If (a) you need to review how you're ***embling the things, or find a different supplier. You certainly should not have this problem with any sort of crimped hoses from a reputable supplier, nor hoses properly ***embled from bulk using Earl's, Aeroquip, XRP, etc. fittings. If (b) then you need to change how you're handling them. If they're leaking at the flare seat then you've got some problems with the mating surface of the flares, and while you might run into one of those every few years I can't imagine consistent problems in this area unless you're using someone's old junk.
is it possible to have mixed up AN 37 degrees with 45 degree fittings? stainless flex line usually AN 37.
I purchased the SS Flex lines and and 37 degree flares from Speedway. Everything is good except where the Flex attaches to the 37 Degree fitting at the caliper. The flex lines are supposed to be 37 degree female ends, and I'm wondering if I should try some antiseize or teflon to help make the seal.
I don't trust speedway. If they have a 'house brand' caliper adapter then id' replace it with an aeroquip or earls' - the caliper adapter is the male adapter screwed into the caliper, ***uming you don't have banjo fittings. Adding teflon tape or paste won't help the -AN seal. When getting a replacement adapter be sure to get steel, aluminum are available in the same size but won't p*** dot tech or any race sanction te ch either.
They make a soft aluminum gasket that you can use between the caliper fitting and the hose end. -3's are pricey at about $2 each but in a pinch (like at the races) they are great. I get them from aircraft spruce
The fittings are all Earls, The flex lines are Speedways house brand. I suspect it's just more offshore s**t. If thats the issue I'll just order some good quality North American flex lines. Here's a couple of shots of the connections I'm having trouble with.
looks like your flex lines are bottoming out on the outside of fittings instead of the inside seal? if you can't see a gap on the outside of the connection, try kissing the ends of flex lines on a grinder to shorten the hex housing, clean and re-tighten.
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