Blew a brake line, need replacement advice?

Tiny
D1VBYZER0
  • MEMBER
  • 1992 GMC C1500
  • 4.3L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 74,000 MILES
Yesterday, the truck blew a brake line after being driven for the first time after the winter. I know the line blew as I've got the evidence all over my driveway.

I'm fairly certain the leak is in the driver to passenger crossover line.

The truck is old, has a fair bit of rust. My question largely centers around whether I can simply replace the broken line. I don't have the time to replace all the lines in the truck unless I can be convinced that it should be a fairly straight-forward endeavor.

Any advice is appreciated, and some guidance on how to go about the repair would be great as well.

Thanks!
Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 AT 7:47 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,892 POSTS
Yes, brake line replacement is common, they have brake lines at the auto parts store at different lengths. If you need to cut the new line, then you need to rent the flare tool and follow this video:

https://youtu.be/sO43p4ZFUiM?si=sJ0dxvt_tsNnZj9C

Let us know if you need anything else.
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Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 AT 9:45 AM
Tiny
D1VBYZER0
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Okay, just to confirm, replacing the single line is totally fine? Is it possible to find a line at the auto parts store with the fittings already attached that I could use on my specific vehicle?

Also, is the best way to identify where the leak is to simply make it leak some more? Fill with fluid, pump the pedal, watch the ground?
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Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 AT 11:00 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,892 POSTS
Yep, fill the brake system with fluid and have a helper pump the brakes, the auto parts store will have the brake line with the fittings, but the length might not be quite right.

Here is how to bleed the system once the repair has been made:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-bleed-or-flush-a-car-brake-system

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

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Thursday, April 11th, 2024 AT 10:27 AM

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