1998 Dodge Caravan Logo
Posted on Nov 20, 2010
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Have rusty, coroded brake lines. need to replace. they are leaking. do i have to get brake lines specifically for the model or is there lines that can be fabricated from like a roll of line?

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  • Posted on Nov 26, 2010
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1. You need to check where the leak is. Decide what you need to replace based on rust damage - could be both lines and also rear wheel brake cylinders (must if bleeder bolt is broken)

2. Remove the old line. Cut at each end, and use socket to remove the hex flare fasteners. Dont lose them!

3. Measure the length of it with a string or extension cable.

4. Go to Auto Shops or dealer with the fastener and get quote for x length you measured. If its more than $100, or if you want to do both lines, its better to do it yourself.

4b. To make yourself, you will need to buy coil of steel line (usually 3/16 and 25ft coil), pipe cutter, metal file, flare tool and identical flare fasteners to your old ones.

5. Once you got a line, bend it to shape, re-attach.

6. Buy at least 1L/quart of brake fluid and bleed both sides where the leak was. ie if leak was at front dont have to bleed rear.

7. If brake fluid level got too low in the reservoir, you MUST bleed all the brake lines. Start with one furthest from the reservoir, usually Rear Right, Rear Left, Front Right, Front Left.

TIPS
- Auto shops will pressure you to overhaul whole system and quote at least $500. Unless you're driving a priceless antique, DONT do it.
- Alternatives: you can do everything yourself, get auto shop to make you the line with flares - both should cost about $50-$100.

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  • Posted on Nov 20, 2010
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A brake specialist should be able to make up new lines from a roll and fit them for you which should be cheaper than trying to order the original parts frpm Dodge which are now probably no longer available.
Another option could be to source the lines from an auto salvage / wrecking yard that specialises in Dodge vehicles. .

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