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Best non-SS brake lines?

S

sleepr

CEG'er
Joined
Sep 2, 2006
Messages
112
Location
Redmond, WA
I'm putting E0 SVT brakes on my wife's '95 GL V6 and, of course, want to replace the brake lines at the same time.

I've seen in my new and old forum searches much discussion regarding the pros and cons of SS brake lines, but no discussion on the alternative - rubber lines. My understanding is that SS lines are great for track use, where regular brake component inspections are the norm and where, because of the controlled track environment, a failure would not be disasterous, but for everyday street use, rubber is safer.

Assuming all of that is true, what is the recommended option for non-SS lines? The best price I've found for Ford OEM lines is $70/$18 front/rear ea. On the other hand, via Froogle, I found that Auto Parts Warehouse has Raybestos PG Plus for $20/21 f/r or Bendix $20/15 f/r.

Price difference for fronts compared with OEMs is HUGE. What gives? :shrug:

thanks, Rob
 
For rubber lines, Ford OEM is definately preferred. They go through significant amounts of testing that the aftermarket replacement parts are not subject to. The higher costs reflect this, though some of the additional cost is just typical markup as well.

Though, a good DOT approved SS line is fine for street use as well. Good SS lines are simply rubber lines with SS braiding over the top for additional support and protection.
 
Rara said:
For rubber lines, Ford OEM is definately preferred. They go through significant amounts of testing that the aftermarket replacement parts are not subject to. The higher costs reflect this, though some of the additional cost is just typical markup as well.

Though, a good DOT approved SS line is fine for street use as well. Good SS lines are simply rubber lines with SS braiding over the top for additional support and protection.
Click to expand...

I thought the SS lines are actually a stiffer teflon tube, wrapped in SS to protect it. The teflon does not yield and stretch the way rubber does.

I've read the old warnings about teflon/SS lines snapping, but I'm not sure I really believe that anymore, either. One of the problems with the internet, is that old undated info persists long after it is superceded.

I also read that the DOT rating is obtained by the way in which the end fittings are attached to the tubing, and has nothing to do with any difference in tubing material.
 
I've had my SS lines on the street for over a year with no problems. I used the Goodridge kit from The Tire Rack, install was easy, and the feel of the brake pedal is great.
 
SVTGT350 said:
I've had my SS lines on the street for over a year with no problems. I used the Goodridge kit from The Tire Rack, install was easy, and the feel of the brake pedal is great.
Click to expand...

Had SS on my '95 for a couple of years, and on my '97 for a while now (8-9 months, maybe?), and I've never had any problems and always have been pleased with the performance.
 
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