Ss brake lines

[flaglor]

I am looking to replace the ratty aluminum lines that run down the gear legs with new stainless versions. Is there a supplier or will I have to fabricate my own?

[GAHorn]

I’m sure you can find someone to make them for you … or you might wish to make your own … because the problem of finding a “standard” replacement part is the lack of standard brake lines since these airplanes originally had a different brake system and not all conform to the same wheel-assy installation (front caliper? rear caliper?)
Then there’s the issue of flex-line length… and which fittings…. etc etc.

[ghostflyer]

I would be very wary of changing the specification of the brake lines or any other lines be it be fuel or such. Stainless steel appears to be more robust but does not flex as easy as aluminium lines and cracks very easily . I have seen copper brake lines harden with age and vibration and crack . If my brakes lines looked a little ratty ,I would change them over with aluminium lines and they will last another 50 years of flying.

[edbooth]

I put SS brake lines on my 53 about 35 years ago, have had no problems with them.

[counsellj]

Go to your local "Race Shop" and procure a "owner produced" part. Several of us have been running them for year. They work great. Get some rubber Cessna gear leg fairings to run them down. https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/ ... 20Products

[c170b53]

Ed, just for clarification, entire brake line SS or the flex line portion SS ? or everything Jon ?

[edbooth]

Ed, just for clarification, entire brake line SS or the flex line portion SS ? or everything Jon ?

The entire brake line from where it exits the fuselage to the cylinder housing.

[c170b53]

awesome Ed

[flaglor]

9000F053-2F1C-4809-BC0B-D3D8CF38912D.jpeg

Mcmaster.com. 89895k724. 1/4”x.035 ss, 3ft. $14.64. One for each side. Bends and flares nicely with the proper tools.

[wabuchanan]

Stainless braided race lines.

[DaveF]

flaglor,

Nice SS brake lines. Thanks for the link.

You might want to take a look at the corrosion pitting on that gear leg, though.
viewtopic.php?f=40&t=4973

[flaglor]

I am not sure what you are referring to. I removed the gear legs (180 legs) and took them and had them sandblasted completely. After which I inspected and saw no particular issues with anything about them. They were then primed with Epibond epoxy and topcoated with single state urethane. Compared to many I have seen in my 25+ years as an IA, these gear legs are in real good shape. I have rarely seen spring steel gear legs that are perfectly smooth. Surface irregularities are the norm, in my experience. The videos are good references.

[DaveF]

Just wanted to make sure you’re aware of the issue, because not everyone here is an IA. But it sounds like you're on top of it.

Thanks again for the SS brake line reference.

[DaveF]

Mcmaster.com. 89895k724. 1/4”x.035 ss, 3ft. $14.64. One for each side. Bends and flares nicely with the proper tools.

Ordered some today, thanks again.

[DaveF]

Ed, did you replace the flare fittings with steel?