Brake line installation

[edcraig]

So I'm replacing my slightly warped brake rotors on my Ghia and noticed the master cylinder is leaking.  No big deal, I'll replace that too.  However, during removal, one of my brake lines had a frozen fitting and snapped the line.  Of course its the one that run to the back of the car.  It's all removed now, and while I'm there I'm installing stainless steel brake hoses.

So here's my question.  Anyone have any tip for the installation of the brake line?  Is it better to shape first, then install?  Install from the master cylinder end or from the inside of the car?  I'm guessing to bend to shape then install vis the MC end first.

Any tips will be appreciated.

....Ed.

[ibg]

Not sure if you are RHD or LHD. for RHD, take out the pedals and seat. Form line to very accurate shape from old line. bend line gently in the middle so back and front can be passed through the holes in the firewall and rear pan section, straighten the line, fitting behind the seat track and tucking under the clips on the tunnel. Make sure the shape is right where it goes under the pedals. i know it seems like stripping half the car but I have tried to work around the seat and pedals in the past and it is hopeless, strip it out so 'the dog can see the rabbit'. Any way you can service your pedals at the same time, repair your clutch hook etc, which you have been meaning to do for a while!!   buy a tube bender too, brake lines can be done by hand but when you kink one you'll curse  

[Hotrodvw]

^^^^^   Yep...   I make mine before I install them.  Just copy the shape of your old one, if not improve the shape.  A tubing bender makes 'em look perrrrrrty. 

[edcraig]

Thanks for he tips.  I think they should sell them in pairs.  One to break, and the other to install!  The second one is in now.   Giving it some shape, and running it in from the front worked.  I was able to do it without removing the pedals. 

...Ed.