Trouble Preventing Brass Brake Line Fittings From Leaking On a Trailer

Updated 08/13/2019 | Published 08/12/2019

Question:

I have just installed brand new out of the box flexible brake lines and kodiak calipers DBC-225-SS Stainless Steel Calipers. The connection where the brake line joins the caliper is weeping on both calipers and I have tightened them as much as I dare for fear of stripping the threads. I have Tfoot connectors and a union and all the connections worked perfectly first time no leaks/weeping, I was really impressed and the flexible lines are great, even where the line connects to the actuator.... no problems. I am at the point now where I am considering using plumbers teflon tape to see if it will stop the weeping but have read mixed advice on doing this. Can you or your experts recommend how to proceed to stop the weeping. Any advice will be much appreciated.

asked by: Peter F

Expert Reply:

The majority of our brake line fittings are made from brass which are a bit different than the steel brake line fittings you might be familiar with on a passenger vehicle. Generally speaking, the cause of these brass brake line fittings leaking is usually related to over-tightening as they are just not designed to be torqued to the same specification as the steel brake line fittings. I recommend you start by tightening the fittings by hand tight, then around 2-3 full rotations with a wrench. Once this is done you can then check for leaks and tighten more if needed. If you like, you can use some thread sealant like part # LT37482 but it should not be needed if properly tightened.

expert reply by: Conner L