I have a 1973 Grabber that I converted to font disc using the spindles off a 1974 Maverick. The rest of the parts are new, all referenced to 1974, including the brake hoses. Check out the pictures I've attached. It appears to me that the hoses are making too much of turn after they come out of the caliper and that they are rubbing on the sway bar links. Does this liik normal? If not, what were the changes for 1974 that I can apply to this conversion to make it correct?
Hey Al I looks like you have your hose twist some when you put them on. Losen them up on one end and turn the hose some so it will be more natural. There was no chance in those years its all the same.
Yeah, we tryed that. It's just that the angle seems to be too acute where the hose has to make almost a 180 degree change in direction. :confused:
It looks like your wheel is turned to the right and the car is lifted by the frame which extends the A arms down. This is pulling the brake hose as tight as it will ever be. Try dropping the car down on the wheels and see what you got. Here's a picture of mine. Not really too much difference.
OK try this. I reminder when I did a converison on the 70 mav. There was a short distance for the hoses and I had to get longer brake hoses. That could be your problem. You can get longer hose at any parts house. I would bring in one hose so they can match the fitting and since you the receipt bring it so they can get the part number.
FYI ... disc brake hard lines and drum brake hardlines are about 6 to 8 inches different in length. The disc brake connectors are further up the frame towards the front of the car which prevents this problem you are having. I ran new lines on my car to resolve the issue ... longer hoses would probably do the trick as well ...
Great idea, thanks! I think I will take them in and have a custom braided set made. It also seems like having a small 90 degree elbow fitting on the caliper end would make things a lot more elegant.
i was kinda worried about the same problem with my aftermarket one.. so i got a bit longer one and had russell make me set that has a 90 bend in it. they also have the ford fitting as well.... that will solve any problems hitting. good luck
I just had custom braided ones (with a 90 degree AN fitting on the caliper side) made here in Portland at a really nice shop. They made them on the spot in about 10 minutes for me. Cost = $80 for the pair. I will post pics when they are installed. Thanks everybody!
Here are a couple of pics of the new brake lines. The name of the shop in Portland, Oregon is Oil Filter Service Company.
