Understanding Brake Lines

[cowboyup3371]

So I'm going to at least flush the brakes right now and then do a complete job this winter. But I'm looking at the quality of the brake lines and am not sure how to read this. Does this look like the braided lines you all talk about trying to get?



Also, there is a DOT NCRN 12/80 number on the front brake line - does this mean it's a manufacture date? Do they go like tires in that sense?

[makenzie71]

No, those are standard nylon lines. Braided lines look like this:



It's probably the stock line...as long as it's not dry rotted I wouldn't worry about it.

[Nessism]

Yes, those are the stock lines. I'd replace them first chance you get. Suzuki calls for replacement every two years, which obviously is silly, but 30 years is definitely over due.

[cowboyup3371]

Thanks Nessism. I will go ahead and rebuild the entire master cylinder for both front and back to include the lines, fluids, and pads. However, I'm looking at Z1's website after checking out Alpha Sports and cannot determine the length of the hose I need. And neither the Clymers I checked out from the library nor the service manual I downloaded from Basscliff tells me what it is.

I know I can try to find a string and do a measurement that way but I was hoping someone might already know how long both the front and rear cables would be on this old 550t? If not, I'll see what I can do tomorrow.

Gosh I can't wait till I can start riding this bike. I know I'm making it safer for me but wow...I'm starting to get discouraged.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

I just used a tape measure and ordered Goodridge parts from Z1. Don't forget to factor about an inch less on each end for the banjo fittings. Or you can check with the vendors below for pre-made kits.

Brake Lines - Stainless steel lines, stock kits, custom kits
http://www.spieglerusa.com/
http://www.h-e-lusa.com/
http://www.cyclebrakes.com/html/custom_lines.htmlThank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Nessism]

First hit in Popular Technical articles forum... http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum...d.php?t=114521

Earl's lines are easy to make, cheaper than anything else on the market, and are easily customized to you don't have to waste a bunch of time trying to guess the proper length.

I tried Goodrich lines as sold by Z1 and much prefer Earl's - they are easier to route since the hose ends are less bulky and the banjo's seem more secure.

[Agemax]

HEL are also a good make and good solid lines. measure the length of the line from banjo hole centres and they will match it. comes in nice colours to and stainless banjo bolts

[cowboyup3371]

First hit in Popular Technical articles forum... http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum...d.php?t=114521

Earl's lines are easy to make, cheaper than anything else on the market, and are easily customized to you don't have to waste a bunch of time trying to guess the proper length.

I tried Goodrich lines as sold by Z1 and much prefer Earl's - they are easier to route since the hose ends are less bulky and the banjo's seem more secure.

Thanks Nessism. I actually just did a search on it and found your article before checking my thread again. I'll see what I can find for the parts but I'm not sure how good I'll do about attaching the banjos to them but we'll see.