Replacing front brake hoses

[BrendanM]

The front brakes hoses have small splits in the rubber tubing at the chassis end and I would like to replace them.

How easy would this be? Can you suggest some tips for making the job easier.

I have replaced hoses in 'conventional' cars but the added complication of de-pressurising the hydraulic system and lowering the suspension to the lowest setting with the wheel off could be a problem for me as I intend to do this on the quiet road outside my house. There is a significant camber on the road. I intend to support the car on wood blocks positioned under the front suspension sub frame.

The car is a 1995/96 2 litre autotomatic petrol turbo estate (ORGA 6612).

The calliper end of the hose has a hex shaped end for spanners but the chassis end of the hose does not seem to have a 'tool friendly' surface. Will I have to use mole grips to undo the coupling with the steel pipe?
How much bleeding of the hydraulic system will I have to do when the new hoses are in place?

Many thanks
Brendan

[Peter.N.]

Hi Brendan

You don't need to depresurise the system, as with 'normal' cars there is no pressure in the braking system unless you press the brake pedal. Its some time since I replaced any of these but I seem to remember it was quite straightforward.

Peter

[xmexclusive]

Hi Brendan

As Peter says a fairly easy job.
You do need to do a bit of preparation though.
Clean up and treat the unions and bleed valve with PlusGas.
This really needs doing at least twice over 24 hrs.
Let it work well in before you start.
The inner end of the hose does not unscrew.
The ring of teeth on the hose end lock it in place.
You need to undo the M11 pipe nut at the top to remove the hose.

John