About every six months, with the vehicle securely raised on jackstands, inspect the flexible hoses connecting the steel brake lines to the front and rear brake assemblies for cracks, chafing, leaks, blisters, and other damage, using a light and mirror for a thorough check; replace any defective hoses with new ones. Clean dirt from the hose ends before disconnecting a front brake hose by unscrewing the brake line fittings from the hose junction block, taking care not to bend the junction bracket or kink the lines, and if needed, soak the connections with penetrating oil. For a rear brake hose, unscrew the metal tube nut with a flare nut wrench, remove the U-clip from the female fitting at the bracket, and detach the hose. Disconnect the hose from the caliper, discarding the sealing washers, then attach a new brake hose using new sealing washers. Reattach a front brake hose by bolting the hose junction bracket to the frame, tightening the bolt securely, and screwing in the tube nuts. For a rear brake hose, insert the end through the frame bracket, ensuring it isn't twisted, then tighten the tube nut fitting securely and install the U-clip at the frame bracket, ensuring the vehicle's weight is on the suspension during this process. Carefully check that suspension or steering components do not contact the hose, having an assistant push down on the vehicle and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock during inspection. When replacing brake lines, use the correct parts, avoiding copper tubing, and purchase steel brake lines from a dealer or auto parts store; prefabricated brake lines with flared tube ends and installed fittings are available and can be bent to the proper shapes. Ensure the new line is well supported in the brackets with sufficient clearance from moving or hot components, check the master cylinder fluid level after installation, add fluid as necessary, and bleed the brake system before testing the brakes carefully before normal operation.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist 
