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MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG MGB Technical - Brake line threads

I have a '73 B that I am doing some brake work on. Basically every line on the car came off and needs to be replaced. The problem is that I cant find any replacement solid line with threads that match. Can somebody give me the specs on the threads and where I could get some line?

Thanks a lot,
Jared
Jared

Hi Jared,
I believe that the brake lines use British threads and also they probably use a bubble flare at the ends instead of the more normal double flare used in the USA. When I restored my 1963 Lotus 7 Cosworth I had to make all the brake lines, re-using the original fittings. I would not do it again!! I would imagine you can buy a new set of brake pipes from Moss or VB?
Regards
Tony
Tony Bates

The brake line threads are 3/8-24 SAE std, but the lines use bubble flares, not std in the US. Moss or The Roadster Factory can supply lines to fit, or if you find someone like me, they can be flared by not quite finishing a double flare, it takes judgement and experience.
FRM
http://www.usachoice.net/gofanu
FR Millmore

I re-did the brake lines on my '77 V8 project because I converted the system to a CB set-up (no booster) and can confirm the bubble flares on most of the ends (there was a couple of double-flares).

I had to ask about a tool for making bubble-flares until it was explained the flare was just the first half of a double-flare (go figure!). Once that was done, it went very well.

You can buy pre-made brake lines in set lengths from any good supplier and then bend them to shape. I used a coat-hanger (bit tough to get the wood to bend) for a template and then have at it with the pipe bender.

After bleeding the brakes, there was a couple of small drips but mainly due to lack of tightening of the fittings.

Cheers
Simon
Simon Austin

I would like to understand why someone would use this "most of a double flare" method while good bubble flaring tools are readily available. It's the difference between hopefully good enough and definitely right.
Wade Keene

Wade,
Where from do this wondrous tool appear?? I tried for about 20 years to get one from all sources, and then figured out how to make-do. Perhaps things have changed since I last tried, which was another 20 years past, oh yes.
FRM
http://www.usachoice.net/gofanu
FR Millmore

FRM,
Yes, a few things have changed in 20 years. OTC makes one kit, and I've seen several others - some manual, some hydraulic. 4.75mm equals 3/16"

http://www.otctools.com/newcatalog/detail.php3?id=254
Wade Keene

This thread was discussed between 22/05/2004 and 24/05/2004

MG MGB Technical index

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