FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

Technical Board => Modification Help => Topic started by: FC-V8 on August 09, 2018, 07:09:37 PM



Title: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: FC-V8 on August 09, 2018, 07:09:37 PM
Hi guys. I running vp front discs on the ute and was wondering what hoses others have used from the calipers to the original bracket where it meets the metal brake lines?  My calipers are front mounted if that makes any difference.
Cheers
Fcv8


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: mcl1959 on August 09, 2018, 07:22:57 PM
I had them custom made. Go round behind the tower and attach with a right angle fitting.
All brake shops should be able to make them for you.
Ken


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: FC-V8 on August 09, 2018, 09:16:43 PM
Thanks Ken. Any idea on the length you got them made to? Also where the right angle fitting meets the line is it still held into position with the retaining clip? If you could post a photo that would be great.
Cheers Glenn


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: Harv on August 10, 2018, 05:17:10 AM
I have the same calipers on my EK wagon. It runs the standard length VN/VP/VR/VS hoses. I've got the fenderwell CRS headers, and they tended to clash with the hoses (or very nearly so) at different lock. Ended up having to fit the HR "spring thingies" to hold the hoses off the headers. Engineer decided he still didn't like the heat in the wheel well, and I had to install insulation sleeves on the hoses.

Cheers,
Harv


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: Dr_Terry on August 10, 2018, 07:48:37 AM
Hi Guys.

I can custom make any variation of any caliper hose you may need. I use either factory style rubber or stainless braid, which is ADR legal.

You need to be very careful mixing & matching different off-the-shelf hoses due to the variation in end fittings.

It's not just the metric/imperial differences either.

Harv mentioned VN/VP/VR/VS hoses. Even they aren't the same was each other. There was a change made around mid-VP (when ABS became commonplace) where the flare changed from the traditional 'inverted' style to the modern 'ball' flare.

You can screw a VS hose onto a VN, because they both have 10mm x 1 threads but the flare will not seal properly & it's not obvious, even to some professional mechanics not familiar with this issue.

As I said I can make any custom hose, any length, any fittings, for street, race or show. Send me a PM if you have any questions.

Dr Terry


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: Harv on August 10, 2018, 11:00:47 AM
Thanks Terry - it's good advice.

I mixed a Gemini booster, XA/B/C master, VR front calipers, VP rears and aftermarket proportioning valve. When I started, I knew absolutely nothing about pipe flaring. Had to be really careful, as those components are a mix of ball and inverted flares (not to mention having to change the pushrod length for preload). Had some great conversation with Ken (with thanks) that taught me a lot.

I should have called you when I broke the car trailer rear hose.... just before knock-off time before a long weekend. Took some calling around before Burt Brothers came to the rescue (only just squeaked in before they shut the doors  ;D).

Cheers,
Harv


Title: Re: Commodore caliper hoses
Post by: mcl1959 on August 10, 2018, 05:56:39 PM
I should add, I made them myself when I was working at Hoppers Stoppers. We had a brake line machine which was handy ;D
From memory, standard fitting from the pipe on the chassis, about 450 mm long and with a banjo fitting on the caliper with a through bolt.
Don't have any photos unfortunately, that was on my since sold FE sedan.
The engineer loved them because they gave excellent clearance on full travel
Ken