Hey all, I have tried searching however could not find the answer. When do you know it's time to replace the brake lines on the evo? I have a 2004 Evo 8 MR, considering it's a 13 year old car with 13 year old brake lines... I would hate for them to fail on me... Do you guys think it's time to change replace them or are there signs I should look for before actually spending the money?

 

I'd imagine it would have to do with type. A nice set of SS lines are going to last longer than stock rubber hoses. If you're running rubber go to SS lines! You'll probably notice a difference in hard braking and overall pedal feel.

 

I've seen old Honda sedans from the late 90's with close to 400 K miles that looked to have the original rubber brake hoses. On this forum I've yet to see an owner of a 8 or newer write that they've popped a hose. On the other hand, if I was using my vehicle in competitive events that involved high speed, I'd replace them every year.

 

Unless they're severely dry rotted, there isn't a reason to need replacing brake lines. Braided brakes hoses just simply have less expansion in return giving better brake feel. If you do buy braided lines, make sure you spend the money for a quality product. I actually had a braided line start leaking at the crimp on my S14, I switched back to an OEM hose and haven't had a issue since. I would only replace on "as needed" basis.

 

For what it's worth, my motorcycle manual say to replace them every 4 years. They use the same type of hose. Bike lines might be exposed to the elements a bit more, but like you said, your car is old.

How much are the lines anyway? The safety factor probably outweighs the cost, and a set of braided lines should be cheaper than OEM replacement.

Edit: an AMS kit is $119, a Goodridge kit is $109, Stoptechs are $176 on Lancershop. Very cheap.

 

Yeah lines are not expensive, a set of HEL braided lines are only $160 AUD

http://sg.helperformance.com/mitsubi...er-evolution-8

 

if you are worried buy steel brained lines and call it a day, better braking force being that the lines wont expand lke stock ones do

 

agreed

 

I think that's a wive's tail. Most people probably couldn't tell a difference between the two. Normal lines are string reinforced, so we aren't talking about a rubber balloon here.

 

At least for durability. And these cars aren't getting any younger. So cheap insurance.

 

SS lines are a great upgrade when considering cost, safety, and performance. As far as the OEM brake lines are concerned please use the proper tools when changing them out.

A flare nut wrench is recommended. http://www.harborfreight.com/5-pc-me...set-68866.html

I have changed out many sets of brake lines and these have never failed me.

 

Sweet, thanks for the heads up. The tools seem fairly cheap, I'll grab a set when i get the lines

 

I just wanted to clear the air here with technical accuracy, this statement is false.
OEM rubber hoses are incredibly durable and outlast teflon SS braided hoses.
Typically a braided hose will fatigue and actually should be replaced sooner than an OEM rubber hose. This is in the sense of suspension oscillation or steering durability, they typically leak at the fitting crimping.

Benefits from SS are mainly from fluid consumption view point. Deflection under pressure is less, especially as rubber ages or increase in temperatures.
A brand new OEM hose has very little fluid consumption in general.
Diameter of the hose is smaller, sometimes easier to package but likely a rare benefit.