Where to Place the Four Loom Clamps to Support Brake Lines in Kit HBA16-252-82

Updated 07/22/2025 | Published 10/06/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Kit for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(230)

$1225.48

Metal Loom Clamp -1/4"

(177)

$2.87

Metal Loom Clamp - 1/2"

(177)

$4.00

Clip for Dexter Steel Brake Line Tubing

(5)

$2.60

Question:

I just received this kit the other day, but it seems incomplete. The brass X and T fittings and unions labeled G, H, and I in the online diagram above are shown connected to both the metal brake lines and the flexible brake lines that go to each wheel. My question is- how are these fittings secured to the trailer frame? There were 4 large plastic loom clamps included as well as many smaller ones, but these will not work on G or H. In any case they would likely quickly break if used to secure I to the frame as roadway impact forces will be transferred through the flexible brake lines as the suspension articulates. This will place stress on the metal brake lines, flexing and eventually breaking them. What am I missing here?

asked by: ORVAL

Expert Reply:

In short; they're not secured to the trailer frame. Presumably you would strategically place the loom clamps near those fittings you mentioned from kit # HBA16-252-82 to limit any movement of those fittings. The rigidness of the metal lines will help keep those metal lines in place so the clamps would not be needed for the metal lines.

We do have other loom clamps if you want more, # A0500 for 1/2 inch and # A0250 for 1/4 inch. We also have clips, # T0936600, for more brake line support.

I would place clamps somewhere between A and F, between G and H, between H and I, and between G and I. The flexible lines need to be able to move so you would not put clamps on them.

expert reply by: Michael H

Mark

7/20/2025

You don’t attach flexible brake lines to the frames? You just lay them on the flange, is that right? What about putting them within 1/2” looms to allow them to move some but to also be secured? Is it ok to drill the bottom flange of a 4” channel and a tube axle that is about 3”? Thank you!

Kate F.

7/21/2025

@Mark You shouldn’t attach flexible brake lines directly to the trailer frame because they need room to move as the suspension flexes. If you secure them too tightly, especially at both ends, the movement can stress the metal brake lines and eventually cause them to crack or fail. Instead of just laying them on the frame flange, a better option is to run them through 1/2” loom clamps like # A0500 that let the lines move a bit while still keeping them from flopping around or rubbing on sharp edges. As for the axle, it’s important not to drill into it, doing so can weaken the structural integrity and lead to serious issues down the road. It’s best to use existing holes, weld-on tabs, zip ties, or adhesive mounts to secure brake lines without risking damage to key components. What kind of trailer are you working on?

Mark

7/21/2025

@KateF thank you, working on a 1988 Rangertrail. Unfortunately, I have already put (5) 5/16” holes in the axle, plus (2) in bottom flange of channel and 2-3 in web. Not sure if I need to take this to a welder and have them fill the holes or weld a reinforcement over the holes. Thanks again

Kate F.

7/21/2025

@Mark I would definitely have a welder/fabricator take a look. Drilling into a torsion axle could potentially damage the internal rubber suspension components, negatively affecting the axle's performance and longevity. I just had to replace my axle on my 2004 Ranger Comanche a few years ago, I realized it was bad because of my tire wear. So keep an eye on how your tires are wearing out.