Rear Brake Fittings Rusted - Opinions Welcome

[rfordo]

Shocker, the below photos are coming from a Chicago based e30 for its lifespan. The majority of the body has been saved from the rot too bad but the undercarriage components thats another story.

I have my tank out in the process of swapping a spectra replacement and all new fuel lines thanks to similar rust. While working to replace the lines to the engine bay I sprung a main brake line leak. This system needs addressing and replacement as well.

I am wanting to remove the entire rear brake line system and swap in a chase bays kit or OEM replacements but I am leaning towards the former.

My question is, I have soaked these fittings a few times now with PB blaster before even attempting to put a wrench on (yes I have correct brake line wrenches). I would love some guidance on how to tackle these fittings, I can try heat but they are so beyond corroded I am doubting my abilities. Would a shop charge an arm and a leg to simply remove the whole system (I could instal the replacement)?

Anyways, heres some rust porn for you freaks out there.

[Andre3127]

I was in your same boat. I ended up cutting all the lines and replacing them with copper nickel and stainless braided lines. I used a T fitting from a VW, which was found below.

Brake lines don't come looking like they have tree bark. I'd replace all of it asap.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl325CEl8lP/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl6cvX5Fnlr/

https://www.amazon.com/PREMIUM-METRIC-BRAKE-Beetle-Buggy/dp/B01LDKTFXS/ref=asc_df_B01LDKTFXS/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312430092407&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11705317514518954075&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9015406&hvtargid=pla-569669697311&psc=1

[rfordo]

]

Thanks for the reply. How would you suggest cutting off the fittings and lines? I have a dremel and cut off wheels I could use.

Would I cut around the fittings and be able to save the brackets?

[AndrewBird]

I'd try breaking them lose first. If you end up rounding them off, you can always cut them then. If you cut them close to the fitting, you can put a deep-well socket on it for more bite.

[Sunnyledge]

Since you’re going to replace them, a little heat will help in separating the fittings. But with with all that PB Blaster get ready for some smoke. (Beware of smoke alarm).

[Sunnyledge]

There is some value in removing them intact. They will serve as a template to pre-bend the replacements giving you a 95% solution.