Replacing brake and fuel lines

[Cees Klumper]

How often do you all replace your brake lines + hoses, and your fuel lines (as in from the tank to the engine and back, as well as the lines to the injectors)? I am starting to think my brake lines & hoses probably need replacing, since it may be ten years or more since that was done. I have no paperwork from before I owned it, which is now going onto 4 years. I need to apply more pressure to brake than I would expect from a power-assisted system. I did have a new master cylinder installed two years ago. Not sure how old the booster is.

Is there a modern-day substitute for the standard brake lines & hoses (as in stainless lines and braided hoses) that you can recommend?

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[J. Huber]

Hey Cees.

I can only offer a little help. I understand that the flexible brake hoses should be changed at least every 5 years or so. Old ones have a habit of deteriorating from the inside out -- sort of like clogging of the arteries. I did mine again last month. They are not expensive, maybe 20 US a piece. This could help your braking situation.

The metal lines last longer but they too deteriorate. I had to have a couple of mine redone last year. As for fuel lines, I have replaced them on an as needed basis -- in other words after they sprung a leak! I suggest, you do most of them at once. Afterall, you have that spunky new engine ready to roar -- why not feed it properly!

James
63 230SL

[rwmastel]

Cees,

As far as testing your booster, leave your car out of gear and apply the brake.  Listen for air hissing and listen for increased engine RPM (more air to air intake via booster).  If you have an automatic transmission, repeat test with car in gear.

Did you ever try to get the brake booster that I gave you rebuilt?  Just curious, as that was the original brake booster from the factory.

Thanks,

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[Cees Klumper]

Thanks James and Rodd, I will get new hoses and install them later this year.

Rodd - your old booster is sitting in my garage, waiting for me to send it off to the place that claims they can rebuild any type booster. One of these days I will get around to it!

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic