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MG MGA - disc brake hose lengths

One of my winter projects was to prepare(rebuild) the front suspension from a 67 MGB. I now have all the necessary parts for a disc brake conversion for my 58 MGA except not sure on the use of MGA brake hoses? Are the MGA hose to short for the disc brakes? If they are, who supplies the correct length? thanks

Mike
Mike

Never having done the conversion, I speak from no experience whatsoever. I do know that the frame end of the brake hose is located in a different place on a disk brake car and there are 2 different hose lengths between them. Perhaps even the brake end of the hose is a different fitting?

A while back, I had a 1600 with drum brakes (not all that uncommon) and remember the flex lines were not std 1600 issue.

If needed, somewhere in my photos, I have pics of the two versions 1) std 1500 w/ drum brakes and 2) 1600 w/ drum brakes. Maybe they will give some insight.

Best is to get word from someone who has done the conversion.

Chuck
Chuck Schaefer

Mike

I converted my drum braked 1500 to discs using the 1600 disc and MGB caliper. I was able to use my standard 1500 flexible pipes. However, I am aware that these are on the limits for minimum length. My colleague relocated the cable anchor point on his to create slightly more length. I am not sure if the 1600 pipe is longer or has the same ends. I am sure someone else will advise on this one.

Steve
Steve Gyles

Mike, I don't know about the length of stock hoses, but since you're converting to B calipers why not just get braided stainless teflon hoses made up to fit. Not terribly expensive, (should be well under $75) and you not only get the length you want, but better pedal feel and no worries about swelling in the future. Most any good hydraulic hose shop can make these up or sell you the hose and fittings for you to assemble. You can save a buck or two by getting standard steel fittings in stead of the stainless if you want. About 20% cheaper and just as strong.
Bill Young

For that matter, can't a good hydraulic (read tractor service) shop cut off the flex hose and apply fresh hose of any length to the same old fittings?

Chuck

P.S. no jokes about the tractor engine history of the Tri**ph vs the tractor brakes on the MG.
Chuck Schaefer

Mike

Don't know what you need, but just measured my spare MGA1600 disc brake flexibles and they are 350mm overall. They are always only just long enough on my 1600 and are the same item (1-off) as on the rear brakes.
Hope this helps.

Pete
Pete Tipping

The 1600 flex line has a banjo fitting at the caliper, not the compression fitting that the B caliper requires. Just FYI.
Mark

I think I used stock B hoses when I put B suspension and brakes on my 58.
R J Brown

This thread was discussed between 10/04/2006 and 11/04/2006

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