I've been putting some headers in my '68 and found it would be impossible to put my driver's side in without removing the steering column and proportioning valve (and undoing the motor mount and jacking up one side of the engine). In the process of doing such, I snapped the topmost brake line going into the valve (the one going to the front driver's side) as the line had rusted to the threaded ending.

Anyways, does anyone know where I could get the individual pre-bent line, or if I could use a braided steel cable deal for the same application (and if so, does the gauge of the tubing have to be the same)?

I'd really appreciate the information.

Hey !
You could always just go to your local auto parts store and get a line close enough in length and bend it yourself . or you can order pre-bent lines that are direct bolt ins from companies like ' Right Stuff Detailing ' , visit them at www.rightstuffdetailing.com , or call them at 800-405-2000 .
You do not want to substitute the steel brake line with a hose where a hose is not supposed to be .
Brake lines do come in different sizes , just make sure you get the right length and size . I am guessing for that front line on your '68 , its going to be a 3/16th size line .
Joe

I agree with the above, bend your own. I bent and cut mine to perfect length, then had them double flared by my local machine shop. I broke my lines as well. Some penetrating oil and a little heat helped some other stubborn ones come out. :beers:

I have a set similar to this one, in case your interested, this price range will get it done, but don't buy a cheap set. anyway.

http://www.coastaltool.com/images/hdash_221.gifhttp://www.coastaltool.com/images/_.gifhttp://www.coastaltool.com/hand_tools/ridgid/images/345-dl.jpgDouble Lap Flaring Tool Kit
A precision designed tool for producing 45° flares in soft copper, brass, aluminum and mild steel tubing. A hardened, smooth cone provides fast, 45° flares either single or double lap. A single clamp screw provides for easy clamping and removal of tubing.
Includes double lap adaptors and plastic carrying case.
Sizes:
Single Flare: 3/16, 1/4, 5/16,
3/8, 1/2, 5/8
Double Flare: 3/16, 1/4, 5/16,
3/8, 1/2
http://www.coastaltool.com/images/_.gifhttp://www.coastaltool.com/images/_.gifMODELTYPEPART#COST345-DL 45° SAE
Double Flares23337$67.50http://www.coastaltool.com/images/hdash_440.gif
Rob

I've been putting some headers in my '68 and found it would be impossible to put my driver's side in without removing the steering column and proportioning valve (and undoing the motor mount and jacking up one side of the engine). In the process of doing such, I snapped the topmost brake line going into the valve (the one going to the front driver's side) as the line had rusted to the threaded ending.

Anyways, does anyone know where I could get the individual pre-bent line, or if I could use a braided steel cable deal for the same application (and if so, does the gauge of the tubing have to be the same)?

I'd really appreciate the information.
Try Inlinetube.com

Bending your own lines isn't all that difficult. The key is to go slowly, and gently work the bends you need into place.
For about the cost of a pre-bent line & shipping, you could buy a decent flare toolkit (make sure it'll do double flares), a mini tubing cutter, and a length of line.... and be done in hours.

In my experience the only bend I couldn't do by hand was a tight 180 turn (meaning a 180 in 1-1/2" - 2" diameter). So, I bought a cheapo-China tubing bender for $6.99.

(Plus you've got a new tool & skills you can barter!)

http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/Elky_031.jpg
http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/Elky_032.jpg

All of the brake lines and the fuel line were done with plain NAPA 5ft. sticks of tube using my hands, the $6.99 bender, and a double flare kit.

Looks good John.:thumbsup:

Rob