Topic: Softening Hardened Rubber Brake Hose

[FXguy]

I have original brake hoses without cracks, original  paint markings, and nice finishes on the metal fittings but the rubber is pretty stiff. 

Anyone have a product/technique for softening rubber brake hoses.  Have seen several threads where WD40 was used to condition weatherstrip and underhood hoses but nothing specific to brake lines.  Also have seen dot4 brake fluid used to soften hardened plalstic and rubber parts on Youtube but don't want to use something that may eventually cause the lines to break down.

TIA

-Scott

[midlife]

I know many here swear never to have WD30 close to any of their cars.

Personally, I would be concerned about the hardened rubber brake lines; not so much the outside but the inside.  If they are hard on the inside, they are liable to be brittle and crack from the inside out, causing a potential safety hazard. 

[J_Speegle]

Might want to search for the thread related to softening old weatherstrip for some possibilities. Outer jackets on these hoses are very touchy after all these years.

[jwc66k]

I have original brake hoses without cracks, original  paint markings, and nice finishes on the metal fittings but the rubber is pretty stiff. 

If in doubt, throw it out.
Jim

[bgp429]

If any doubt don't use them. There are vendors who re-make single crimp hoses.

Previous thread

http://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/index.php?topic=5380.0

[FXguy]

Thank you all for the input.

I would not personally use WD40 on underhood rubber, but it has been suggested in other posts.

Yes, Jeff, I reviewed the weather strip thread before posting this, but was looking for specific input on using the technique on brake hoses.

I don't want to get off topic here, but these hoses are specific to a June 64 K code, looks like DSD is specific to 68-69 model years, but I will contact to get more info.

BTW, car is thoroughbred, not a daily driver.  Some pics of the rear hose attached.

-Scott

[J_Speegle]

I don't want to get off topic here, but these hoses are specific to a June 64 K code, looks like DSD is specific to 68-69 model years, but I will contact to get more info.

They/he doesn't - double checked last week for a 67 project    But if they do crack don't throw anything away. You never know when things will change (can be fixed) and you may need cores

[FXguy]

They/he doesn't - double checked last week for a 67 project    But if they do crack don't throw anything away. You never know when things will change (can be fixed) and you may need cores

Thanks for that, Jeff.  I always hang on to original parts.

-Scott

[Chris Thauberger]

I have used this on vacuum lines and other rubber components.

Chris

[67gtasanjose]

Hmmm! Fairly sure this product could be considered for use on MANY things (pertaining to automotive purposes ) ...but ya-might keep it away from the young-uns...they might try it on OTHER non-automotive ideas

[Smokey 15]

 Show it a naked pic of Roseanne Barr. That will soften any hose.   
 Seriously, If you are driving the car, I'd replace them with date coded. I'd ziplock bag the originals. If you only trailer, I'd try silicone.

[mtinkham]

I have had positive results cleaning rubber and plastic pieces with dishwasher liquid. I always test a small section first. As already mentioned, the current integrity of the brake hose is unknown and any cleaning or restoring will probably not improve the integrity.

[FXguy]

Show it a naked pic of Roseanne Barr. That will soften any hose.

Thanks all for the input...but this one is the best...LOL!!!

[FXguy]

I have used this on vacuum lines and other rubber components.

Chris

Thanks Chris, I'll try this on some in the shop and see how they hold up before trying on anything that goes back on  the car.

[midlife]

Another option is to find a better used set of hoses and restore them if they are more pliable.