How to Install Brake Lines on a 1969 Chevy Chevelle

Installing brake lines on the Chevy Chevelle is not a difficult project. The hardest part will be finding lengths that will match the system setup. You can easily match the current brake lines however, if you have the proper tools to do the job. You can change a single brake line in less than 30 minutes, and save yourself a great deal of money compared to the labor costs at an automotive repair shop. You can do this project in your driveway. This procedure assumes that you will be making your own brake lines to replace the old ones. If you are able to find matching lines to replace your old ones, you can eliminate the flaring tools from the list.

Instructions

1

Open the engine compartment and drain half of the brake fluid from the master cylinder using the turkey baster. Place the fluid in the drain pan for recycling later. Place a set of wheel chocks behind the rear wheels, or in front of the front wheels, depending on where you must work on the brake lines.

2

Lift the Chevelle with the automobile jack on the end you are working with. Chock the wheels still on the ground. Place a jack stand under the Chevelle near the jacking point and raise it to the frame. Remove the wheel using the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts. Locate the brake line and thoroughly clean the fittings with the wire brush to avoid contaminating the brake lines.

3

Loosen the fittings on the brake line one side at a time. Allow any remaining brake fluid to drain into the drain pan when you remove each fitting. Use the old brake line as a pattern to bend new tubing for a new brake line. Place a fitting and a retaining ring on each end and secure it using the flaring tool. Connect the brake line and tighten the fittings with a wrench.

4

Repeat the procedure on all affect brake lines. Replace the wheel on the Chevelle and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the Chevy. Lower the car to the ground. Fill the master cylinder with fresh brake fluid. Bleed the brake lines by having a helper pump the brakes several time and hold them while you open the bleeder valve with a wrench to expel the air from the lines.

5

Repeat the procedure as necessary to expel all air from the brake lines. Add brake fluid to the proper level.