Essential Guidelines for the Safe Installation of Steel-Braided Brake Hoses
When installing steel-braided hoses, it's imperative to ensure they are installed with sufficient clearance from any electrical components such as cables, lights, relays, or other elements that may be energized. Inadequate insulation can result in the transfer of electrical current to the steel braiding, which could lead to sparking and potential discharges. This not only risks scorch marks on the hose's exterior but also may damage the inner Teflon hose, potentially causing leaks and necessitating hose replacement.
Steel-braided hoses have a smaller bending radius than conventional rubber hoses, a factor that needs consideration during installation to avoid creating friction points. To prevent damage to the vehicle's paintwork, these brake lines come with a protective transparent sheath.
The installation process is made more manageable with swivel connectors, which allow for rotation of up to 180 degrees, preventing the hose from twisting during installation.
Careful attention is required when adjusting the tightening torques for the connectors' hollow screws. It is important to adhere to the specifications provided by the vehicle manufacturer, which usually do not exceed a maximum of 25Nm. For aluminum hollow screws, the recommended torque should not exceed 14Nm.
Handling steel-braided hoses must be done with care to avoid damage from brake fluids, which can corrode paintwork. Any spills should be promptly cleaned, and if brake fluid contacts the paint, it should be washed off immediately with water. Furthermore, it's important to ensure the correct disposal of used brake fluid in compliance with environmental regulations.
After the installation is complete, it's crucial to properly bleed the braking system to remove any trapped air. This ensures that the brake pedal is firm and responsive, crucial for the safe operation of the vehicle.