Brake line fitting issues - 96 dodge ram 1500

Hurley

Hurley

WTFab
Joined
Feb 22, 2008
Location
Statesville
I am replacing the hard line that runs from the frame-mount to the rear axle flex line on a 1996 ram 1500, and having problems. I have reused the factory 3/8-24 fitting on new ni-copp hard line, using the standard 45deg double-flare. It is leaking past the flare only, and has done so with every attempt that I make. Originally I thought that I had the wrong flare, but I have retrieved an original line end and confirmed its shape.

I've modeled ~5 flares on this particular end, with the latest one looking exactly like the factory flare (as far as concentricity/ect. goes). One thing that I've noticed is that the fitting actually threads deeper into the connecting block than what it originally had, however, when comparing the original flare with the new flare they are basically the same protrusion.

Any advice?
 
I've not tried the copper yet. Was about to...don't know now lol.
I just did a k3500 basically the same line and didn't have issue. I know there's no reason to ask, you cleaned the female fitting well? And it tightens well? Again I've not even pulled a section of copper yet is the wall thickness the same?

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Well, I ended up getting it 'right' haha. I'm calling it a mix of bad flare and possible debris in the female, as I got it on the 7th flare. The Ni-cop line is same wall thickness as the standard 3/16" steel line. To be honest, if I had a professional brake flaring tool, this would probably have not been any issue, as I broke the 'special piece' (mandrel?) in the first one I bought, then rented another kit and it ended up making nearly every flare somewhat lop sided... could have been operator error. (had a tubing cutter, file & reamer to boot)

^my online searching indicated double-flares, and the end that I saved from the original line was what appeared to be a double-flare.
 
Hurley said:
Well, I ended up getting it 'right' haha. I'm calling it a mix of bad flare and possible debris in the female, as I got it on the 7th flare. The Ni-cop line is same wall thickness as the standard 3/16" steel line. To be honest, if I had a professional brake flaring tool, this would probably have not been any issue, as I broke the 'special piece' (mandrel?) in the first one I bought, then rented another kit and it ended up making nearly every flare somewhat lop sided... could have been operator error. (had a tubing cutter, file & reamer to boot)

^my online searching indicated double-flares, and the end that I saved from the original line was what appeared to be a double-flare.
Click to expand...
I've considered a hydraulic flare tool for that reason. I struggle getting steel line to what I feel is an acceptable flare. That said most that come in from other shops are worse than mine. Lol

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