[urq] Re: Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines

[Fluhr]

>Anybody out there have any additional comments on the
>SS lines from GPR? I just bought and received a set
>for my UrQ, but have not fit them yet. Should I change
>my plans?


I put GPR lines on my CGT and Urq before I knew anything about
stainless lines and line ends, about 6-7 years ago.  As I came
to find out, one end on the GPR lines at the time were wrong.
The BIRA group tried to point it out, but I don't think GPR ever
resolved the problem.  The connector should be a male bubble flare
and GPR had an odd style which was more like a female bubble
flare.  It sealed fine, but I felt it did some unpleasant things
to the mating surface of my caliper.

Also, the GPR lines (and most aftermarket liens) use a crimped-on end.
I am not a huge fan of crimped ends, though in some cases the use is
warranted.  One rear brake line on my Urq flexed continually right at
the end of the crimp and over time broke most of the braiding around
the teflon hose.  This can cause catastrophic failure of the hose
(which I have had occur before due to rubbing on the wheel).  I do
highly recommend regular inspection of any stainless steel lines
installed to make sure they are OK. 

When running QRS I settled on using Earl's bolt-together Speedflex
ends.  These have a curved support area where the line interfaces
with the end so that flexing at that point won't stress one point
of the braid.  The downside is that salt/dirt/crud can collect in
that area over time and may eventually damage the line.  This was not
as big an issue on the Porsche calipers because the connector is
oriented horizontal.  On factory calipers is it a larger concern
since the fitting will capture and hold crud. 

If you have the inclination, you can order parts and hose from
www.amstreetrod.com and build your own lines.  That is where I get
all my stuff.

Regards,
Eric
'82 urq