[Dougie]

I'm retrofitting a 68 Mustang brake Master Cylinder onto my 62 Studebaker Lark (Chevy V8 conversion). Because I am also using a hydraulic clutch, I have a tight fit with the clutch and brakes M/C's. It will be much easier to use banjo bolts to attach the brake lines to the brake M/C so they go straight down between the two M/C's. Can I just use banjo bolts and two washers on each to attach the lines to the side of the M/C or are there special fittings? Thanks,

[kleen56]

The mustang MC is not designed to have banjo bolts mount the brake lines. The MC uses a double flare on the end of the tube with a male threaded end that screws into the MC. The double flare is the part that seals the fluid from coming out of the MC when the pedal is depressed. The outside of the MC (surface area) where the banjo bolt mates up to would need to be machined flat in order for the banjo bolt to mate up to the MC. Regardless, the banjo bolt itself won't go into the MC because the end is designed for the flare fitting and not a banjo type bolt (fluid couldn't come out if it tried). Not sure how much room you have but often you can make a 90 degree bend of the brake line very close to the mounting nut itself which may give you enough room to connect the line.

[Dougie]

That's kind of what I thought. You're right, the M/C is not machined where the brake lines connect. I thought that would be an issue., but i hadn't even thought about the flare connection. I'm new at brakes so I'm glad I'm asking. It will be tight but I think I can get a tight 90 bend in there. It would sure be easier if I could find one pre-bent. I can imagine how many lines I'll kink trying to put a small radius bend on them.

[kleen56]

Check different auto parts stores, they may have one that is pre bent that you can use. You can always cut the tube, make a flare and use a splice to connect another brake line together. If you have a good bending tool it will eliminate the kinks in the line. Take your time... you'll get it, it's actually fun bending lines when you get the hang of it. I usually use a coat hanger and figure out which way I want the lines to bend. Then use the coat hanger as a template for your brake lines. Make sure you "double flare" the ends of the brake lines. There is a difference between double and single flairs. All brake lines should be double flared. The good part is the brake lines don't cost much so if you mess one up, it's no big deal. Have fun!

[Dougie]

Good advice. I need to make all new brake lines to tie into the Studebaker front drums and the new Ford rear end, so I hope it's fun!

[LATECH]

Use a fitting like this to gain a turndown for the line to screw into. JEGS has this one. look around there.
Also my last picture bump.

[S10xGN]

Dougie,

Sure you can! There's a place called Pure Choice Motorsports that makes special banjo bolts for master cylinders. They have them in various sizes with either AN or inverted flare outlets. Here's a pic of a set on my Maverick.

Russ

[Dougie]

That's exactly waht I need. Thanks for the great lead.