Q: How to inspect and replace brake line and rubber brake hoses on Ford Explorer?
A: About every six months, the rubber hoses which connect the steel brake lines with the front and rear brake assemblies should be inspected for cracks, chafing of the outer cover, leaks, blisters and other damage. These are important and vulnerable parts of the brake system and inspection should be complete. A light and mirror will be helpful for a thorough check. If a hose exhibits any of the above conditions, replace it with a new one. Using a flare nut wrench, disconnect the brake line from the hose fitting, being careful not to bend the frame bracket or brake line. Hold the fitting on the hose with a wrench to prevent the metal line from twisting and the frame bracket from bending. Remove the large retaining clip and detach the hose from the bracket and the body. Remove the banjo bolt from the caliper and discard the sealing washers. Connect the hose to the caliper, using new sealing washers. Tighten the banjo bolt. Without twisting the hose, connect the other end of the line to the bracket on the chassis. Connect the metal brake line to the hose fitting by hand, then, using a flare nut wrench, tighten the fitting securely. Be sure to use a wrench on the hose fitting to prevent the bracket from bending or the metal line from twisting. When the brake hose installation is complete, there should be no kinks in the hose. Make sure the hose doesn't contact any part of the suspension. Check this by turning the wheels to the extreme left and right positions. If the hose makes contact, remove it and correct the installation as necessary. When replacing brake lines be sure to use the correct parts. Don't use copper tubing for any brake system components. Purchase steel brake lines from a dealer or auto parts store. Prefabricated brake line, with the tube ends already flared and fittings installed, is available at auto parts stores and dealers. These lines may be available pre-bent to the proper shapes. If pre-bent lines are not available, purchase a straight section the same diameter and length as the original section and use the proper bending tools to shape the new line to match the original. When installing the new line make sure it's securely supported in the brackets and has plenty of clearance between moving or hot components. After installation, check the master cylinder fluid level and add fluid as necessary. Bleed the brake system and test the brakes carefully before driving the vehicle in traffic.