When replacing the driver's side brake caliper on my '83 300D the brake hose that attaches the caliper to the brake line would not loosen where the hose attaches to the brake line. The brake line bolt was stripped. I used a hacksaw to cut away the stripped bolt and broke the metal and plastic clip holding the brake hose in place (to the car).

I can not find where to get replacements for the brake line part and medal/plastic clips to hold the brake hose.

Has anyone else experienced a similar repair?

Please share your wisdom.

J.J.

It is a bit of a PITA if you mess up that fitting. The fitting is part of the brake line and normally is sold with a section of brake line.

The problem is that you need to connect this new brake line, with fitting, to the existing system. This will require a double flared end with a suitable fitting for the connection to the existing line. The existing line will also need one of the same fittings and a double flare.

I have not purchased the tool to do a double flare, and have replaced the entire line on the Dodge van when the same thing occurred. I'm not sure how difficult this will be on a M/B.

It's not that difficult to make a decent double flare. All you really need is the flare kit with the special insert to make the double. The tool kit should be available from almost any automotive parts supplier, and they probably also have the fitting you'll need, too. Take along the hose that the fitting will screw into to make sure.

HTH,

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Norm in NJ
Next oil change at 230,000miles

I know it seems awkward to resurrect a thread that's 4 years old but this is the exact situation I have. I'm ready to take a hack saw to the brake lines since I've severely chewed up.

Does anyone know where to get new brake line bolts? I'm going to need 4 since I've tried everything I can (and willing to) and it won't do anything but strip and I'm rather frustrated with the whole scenario at the moment.

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Jason

00 Subaru Legacy (fun wagon)
96 Nissan Sentra (disavowed)
82 300SD (garage queen, will run again hopefully)
87 300DT (Gone: 10/15/2010)