SDHQ SS brake lines install

[CP RAPTOR]

^^ how do you feel about the lines? Do they make a difference in stopping power or did they just firm up the pedal? How is the braking feel? Worth the money?

 

[jondle]

I just put on Alpha1 lines, which should feel the same as the SDHQ, and think they improved the pedal feel tremendously. Definitely less spongy. I can't really say they improved overall stopping power, but I haven't had the pedal touch the floor with them yet. As cheap as the lines are compared to bumpers, racks, lights, etc., I can't believe they aren't more popular than they are.

It was a pretty easy job. Bleeding was very easy with two people. I bled them one at a time, as I changed them, to ensure each line felt firm before moving on to the next one. Also seemed better that way in case I ran out of time, then I could just finish the one I was on and leave.

My Alpha1's didn't come with any brackets, so in that regard the SDHQ ones might be better. On the rear, I bent the factory bracket to get the rubber hose out and the new line in. Then bent it back to hold the new line. On the front, I cut the factory bracket with a dremel to get the rubber one out, ground down the edge to ensure there were no sharp points, and then zip tied the lines to it. I probably need to get a hose clamp or something stronger than a zip tie before really off-roading.

 

[RaptorVette]

I really don't think they make any difference in stopping distance. They do firm up the pedal. I'm on the fence whether they are worth it or not. I'm trying to maximize the stock brake system for now. Pads have made the biggest difference. I'm running Carbotech 1521 (bobcat) compound pads front and back and those definitely stop the truck faster with no noise and very little brake dust.

^^ how do you feel about the lines? Do they make a difference in stopping power or did they just firm up the pedal? How is the braking feel? Worth the money?

 

[Nick@Apollo-Optics]

The purpose of the lines isn't to improve braking distance, but to decrease brake fade. If your out off-roading and your doing a lot of repetitive, heavy braking, the stock lines will get so hot that they will expand and you will lose brake pressure. SS lines will not expand and you will not have brake fade. And the SDHQ lines are Kevlar coated for extra protection.

 

[Pt2285]

Anyone used speed bleeders?