Recommendations on caliper and brake line install methods

[bavarian3]

Looking for some recommendations to do a brake line + caliper change without the mess. Also looking to improve the bleeding process(always used old school 2 person method).

Anyone have insights on:

1. best bleeder and or bleeding method they've used. Pump power bleeders have mixed reviews.
2. how to stop or slow the flow of brake fluid upon line removal to reduce mess. I see TIS recommends putting the pedal down, anyone try this with success?

[Estoril]

I use the Motive bleeder for all bleeding tasks. Make sure you only use a flare wrench on the line, especially at the hard line. I use Schwaben stoppers to block the line while the caliper is off.

[nahvkolaj]

I've never managed to avoid a total mess, but get yourself an assortment of vacuum caps. Then when you disconnect the lines, slip a vacuum cap over the hard line and it will prevent further leaks. You can also use them as plugs on the calipers.

Most hand pump pressure bleeders ought to do the job, like the one from Motive. Just fill the reservoir, pressurize, and crack the bleeders till the bubbles stop (keep your catch bottle at or above the caliper; if your catch bottle is on the ground you can suck air via the bleeders threads and never know if you're done bleeding)

[bavarian3]

I use the Motive bleeder for all bleeding tasks. Make sure you only use a flare wrench on the line, especially at the hard line. I use Schwaben stoppers to block the line while the caliper is off.

Black or red cap for the motive bleeder? No leaking issues?

I've never managed to avoid a total mess, but get yourself an assortment of vacuum caps. Then when you disconnect the lines, slip a vacuum cap over the hard line and it will prevent further leaks. You can also use them as plugs on the calipers.

Most hand pump pressure bleeders ought to do the job, like the one from Motive. Just fill the reservoir, pressurize, and crack the bleeders till the bubbles stop (keep your catch bottle at or above the caliper; if your catch bottle is on the ground you can suck air via the bleeders threads and never know if you're done bleeding)

Thanks for the tips. Seems I'll have to deal with some leakage of brake fluid. I'll pickup these plugs: link

[bigjae46]

I use a rubber stopper that I can press onto the end of the hard line. Forgot where I got it from.

Or just be fast.

[TexaZ3]

I use Motive bleeder as well. Does the job well.

[D-O]

The TIS recommendation of holding the pedal slightly depressed does work. You will still get a drip or two, but nothing a rag on the ground can't handle.

I have the Motive bleeder and it works fine, but I would go for the deluxe Schwaben bleeder nowadays. The quick connect for the adapter is much nicer than the old motive setup.

[Estoril]

Black or red cap for the motive bleeder? No leaking issues?

Red (always have a spare seal on-hand). No leaks.

[bavarian3]

The TIS recommendation of holding the pedal slightly depressed does work. You will still get a drip or two, but nothing a rag on the ground can't handle.

I have the Motive bleeder and it works fine, but I would go for the deluxe Schwaben bleeder nowadays. The quick connect for the adapter is much nicer than the old motive setup.

Fantastic.

On the Schwaben, this the one? https://www.rennline.com/schwaben-3-...HW8fnzUGw2kIWN

[D-O]

Fantastic.

On the Schwaben, this the one? https://www.rennline.com/schwaben-3-...HW8fnzUGw2kIWN

That is the one I would buy.

[bavarian3]

Went ahead and ordered the Schwaben but with aluminum cap and their catch bottle. Seems like a nice kit. I plan to use the pedal method and harbor freight plug kit to slow/stop the fluid from coming out when swapping.

Will followup in a few weeks how it goes, thanks all. 👍

[George Hill]

Heres what I do if replacing rubber lines, calipers don't really affect the process either way.

Get some 5/16" headed self tapping screws. Clamp the brake line with a pair of vice grips. Cut the brake line between the vice grips and caliper. Run your self tapper into the line to plug it and release the vice grips. Replace your caliper and install the new line into the caliper and tighten. Open the bleeder screw and attach your catch bottle to it. Remove the rubber hose from the metal line and swap over the new line. The open bleeder screw will give the fluid somewhere to go, reduces spillage and starts the bleed process. Gravity bleeding the calipers works 99% of the time as long as you don't run the reservoir dry. And honestly this method and not spilling much will hardly affect the reservoir level as is.

This method also will still allow the brakes to be operated (lightly and obviously not that corner) if for some reason the car has to be moved. I've driven tons of cars in and out of the shop with only one brake circuit operating with this method.

[bavarian3]

George Hill Always droppin' the knowledge. Much appreciated.