SS Brake lines more susceptible to failure on lowered suspsensions?

[Dimitrios]

So, I got some Goodridge SS lines yesterday, and about to install them today (assuming the weather cooperates a bit). I noted the "warning" card included with them that states that the lines may be susceptible to failure on "non OEM" (read: non modded) suspensions and that even an alignment may require the lines to be tweaked (but violating the warranty).

I'm not lowered (yet...story of my life), but would I be better off waiting for to lower (H&R springs, nominal drop). I've been reading some odd posts on here about people's SS lines (not necessarily Goodridge) simply failing, especially what appears to be "modded" suspsensions.

Is that failure tendency inherent to the SS lines themselves or did the owner just not heed proper install warnings and adjust the lines accordingly, post suspension mods.

Thoughts? Anything to keep in mind if I install today on a stock height suspension and then put the springs in a week or so (who'm I kiddin...? )

 

[Action Jackson]

This might help:

http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/Performance/brakelines.htm

 

[Roywhitep5]

scarry

 

[zerocover]

The goodridge lines have the plastic cover right.
If so your fine.

Lines with the plastic cover dont let dirt in so they wont break. THats why you pay alot more for lines with the plastic.

 

[Dimitrios]

This might help:

http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/Performance/brakelines.htm

Thanks; good read.

From the (albeit empirical) research I've done in the past hour or so, it seems that the Teflon liner itself is the evident failure point. Getting some hi-pressure rubber lined stainless braided hoses (such as: http://www.aeroquip.com/pages/prodinfo.html) would do wonders for the issue.

 

[Kansei]

This might help:

http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/Performance/brakelines.htm

Thanks a LOT for that. I wasn't really considering getting these because I don't have any issues with the pedal feel with my stock lines, but now I won't even bother. Does the same go for SS clutch line? Same situation for me there, I don't notice any issue with the stock line but was just wondering.

 

[Dimitrios]

Thanks a LOT for that. I wasn't really considering getting these because I don't have any issues with the pedal feel with my stock lines, but now I won't even bother. Does the same go for SS clutch line? Same situation for me there, I don't notice any issue with the stock line but was just wondering.

The clutch line would probably have a lesser tendency towards this as it doesn't exhibit the range of motion and other variables that may affect the brake line.

It seems that money would be better spent in quality brake pads, slotted rotors (as cross-drilled, chamfered or not, have a tendency towards cracking around the holes), calipers with 2 or 4 pistons for greater surface area, and obviously better fluid.

I'm returning these...

 

[chiefmg]

I have stainless lines on all my motorcycles and cars, and have for years. I like the extra feel and stopping power afforded by the limited expansion of the lines under pressure. To date I have seen no signs of any problems with failure of any of the lines (and I used to race one of my bikes). I think it is like anything else, if you maintain your car, install items properly and keep an eye on things you won't have a problem.

 

[Dimitrios]

I have stainless lines on all my motorcycles and cars, and have for years. I like the extra feel and stopping power afforded by the limited expansion of the lines under pressure. To date I have seen no signs of any problems with failure of any of the lines (and I used to race one of my bikes). I think it is like anything else, if you maintain your car, install items properly and keep an eye on things you won't have a problem.

Fair comment; much appreciated. I may just keep them now...20% restock...(poke)

 

[mazdaholic]

I think it is like anything else, if you maintain your car, install items properly and keep an eye on things you won't have a problem.

i have to agree. I've had a set of the goodridge for a while now, and zero problems. just make sure when you install new lines ( goodridge or any other type ), that they are not rubbing against anything.

 

[Action Jackson]

I've read that some lines can be taped over with something called Tommy Tape.

 

[mazdaholic]

You can get a set made be your local hydraulic shop as well. a freind did that, and they will be installed soon.

 

[gar777]

I've had Goodridge SS lines on my Protege for 2 years now with no problems. I ran similar SS lines (forget the brand, maybe Racing Beat?) on a 2nd gen RX7 ITS racecar for 5+ years without any problems. I had never heard about the requirement/suggestion to change them every 2 years but the NSX site info is a bit scarry.

I don't know what end-types the Goodridge SS lines have but it makes sense to me that a dedicated, racing-purpose type line costing more than the stock lines would be able to perform better than stock. Consider high pressure SS oil lines, etc. It just makes sense. The SCCA requires that seatbelts be changed every couple of years but they don't have any requirements (that I'm aware of) regarding the age of SS lines.

To be safe, though, I am going to check my SS lines more often. Just like the rubber ones (or any other part for that matter), they can fail. That's what I'm taking away from this--and it's a useful reminder.


Haven't seen any problems with the SS lines and my H&R lowering springs, though.

 

[Dimitrios]

Haven't seen any problems with the SS lines and my H&R lowering springs, though.

Did you install the lines first or the springs?

 

[gar777]

springs were my first mod. I have a strong aversion to wheel gap.

 

[Dimitrios]

So, I sent an email to Goodridge last night and I got a reply quick. I was mostly expressing some concerns. Here's their reply:


Hello Dimitrios,

Thank you for your e-mail!

Well, this is a tricky sort of situation. As with any aftermarket part that you install on your car,
you run the risk of being at the mercy of the mechanic/installer's knowledge or ability to do his or
her job.

The key is to make sure that the installer is familiar with what he/she is doing and that they take their
time.

Our Goodridge G-Stop Brake Line Kits are spec'd from stock length hoses and vehicles, hence the
disclaimer that the lines are designed to work with unmodified cars. Now, that does not mean that the
kits can not be used with modified cars, however, there are some modifications that will negate the
usability of any line set. As long as the lines are install properly (follow the same path as the stock OEM
lines, are not twisted or kinked, and/or otherwise modified from their original state) there should be no
problem installing them on your car. There are also several things to check when installing the lines:

1. Compare each of the OEM lines removed from the car to the Goodridge G-Stop lines, make sure there
are no major differences.

2. Remove one factory line at a time and replace with the equivalent Goodridge G-Stop Line, much like
changing spark plugs.

3. After the lines are installed double check all connections to make sure they are tight.

4. Make sure that NONE of the lines are twisted, Kinked, or under tension.

5. Make sure that there is proper clearance from; Wheels, Rotors, Axles, any moving suspension parts

6. Put the car on the ground and check all the points mentioned in #5. Move the steering wheel lock to lock
and check clearances again.

7. We usually recommend taking the car an a short drive (5 miles or so) and then check again. Sometimes,
when the suspension moves it could alter the routing slightly.

8. In some cases where vehicles have been lowered, it may be necessary to tie the lines of with a zip tie
to make sure all the proper clearances are maintained. As mentioned above, these lines are spec'd from
sock length hoses and stock vehicles, changes to the suspension may alter the geometry of the suspension
as to require the lines to be secured with tie off of some sort (With OUT altering the Goodridge G-Stop Kit)

As for failures, well the can be caused by many different things, improper installation, improper kit (using the
wrong kit for the car), etc . . . . . . . However, if the steps listed above are followed and the lines are checked
and double check you should have no problems. I make it a point to inspect my Goodridge Kit every time I
change my oil to make sure everything is as it should be.

Also, bear in mind that the Goodridge G-Stop Brake Line Kits come with a Life Time Guarantee. If anything
should go wrong do to manufacturer's defect, we will replace the kit Free Of Charge.

I hope that answers your question, if not feel free to e-mail me back or call me directly at the number listed
below.

Thank you,

Michael Klapp
Technical/Customer Support
Goodridge USA