Approximately every six months, raise the vehicle and securely support it on jackstands to inspect the flexible hoses connecting the steel brake lines to the front and rear brake assemblies. Look for cracks, chafing, leaks, blisters, or any damage. Thoroughly inspect the hoses using a light and mirror if needed, and replace any hose exhibiting the mentioned conditions. Replacement of Front Brake Hose: Disconnect the brake line from the hose fitting using a back-up wrench, then remove the U-clip from the hose fitting. Remove the hose from the bracket, and at the caliper end, remove the bolt from the fitting block along with the copper gaskets. When installing the new hose, use new copper gaskets and lubricate bolt threads with clean brake fluid before attaching. Attach the hose to the caliper with the fitting flange engaged in the caliper locating ledge, and install the female fitting in the hose bracket without twisting the hose. Reinstall the U-clip retaining the female fitting to the frame bracket and reattach the brake line to the hose fitting using a back-up wrench. Ensure there are no kinks in the hose and check for contact with suspension parts during extreme wheel turns. Rear Brake Hose: Disconnect the hose at both ends using a back-up wrench, remove the U-clips, and separate the female fittings from the brackets. Unbolt the hose retaining clip and remove the hose. Install the female ends in the frame brackets without twisting the hose, then reinstall the U-clips to retain the female end to the bracket. Attach the steel line fittings to the female fittings using a back-up wrench, ensuring the bracket isn't loosened during hose installation. Fill the master cylinder reservoir and bleed the system. Metal Brake Lines: When replacing brake lines, use prefabricated brake lines or obtain the recommended steel tubing and fittings to match the line to be replaced. Cut the new tubing to the correct length, flare the ends with an ISO flaring tool, and carefully bend the line to the proper shape if necessary. Install the new line securely supported in the brackets with sufficient clearance from moving or hot components. After installation, check the master cylinder fluid level, bleed the brake system, and thoroughly test the brakes before driving in traffic.
