24in #3 Line -3 Straight/-3 St

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your air-cooled Volkswagen''s braking response and hydraulic reliability with the Allstar Performance 24-inch #3 braided stainless steel line. In the world of vintage VWs and custom sand rails, the stock rubber hoses are often the weakest link in your stopping power. Over time, rubber hoses soften and expand under pressure, leading to that dreaded ''''spongy'''' brake pedal feel that can be terrifying during a steep descent in the dunes or a sudden stop in modern traffic. This premium line features a rugged PTFE (Teflon) inner core wrapped in a tightly woven stainless steel braid, which virtually eliminates hose expansion. By ensuring that every ounce of pressure from your master cylinder reaches the wheel cylinders or calipers, you achieve a firm, consistent pedal and significantly improved modulation.

Beyond performance, durability is where this Allstar Performance line truly shines for the off-road and street enthusiast alike. The 304 stainless steel outer covering is designed to resist abrasion from flying debris and corrosion from the elements, making it an ideal choice for exposed suspension setups on Baja Bugs and Manx-style buggies. Whether you are plumbing a custom disc brake conversion, a hydraulic clutch slave cylinder, or a high-pressure gauge, the 24-inch length provides ample reach for long-travel swing axle or IRS rear ends. The straight -3 AN fittings on both ends offer a secure, leak-proof flare seal that outperforms traditional compression fittings, giving you the peace of mind needed when pushing your air-cooled machine to its absolute limits.

FITMENT

While this is a universal high-performance component, it is most commonly utilized in the following Volkswagen and off-road applications:

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1946-1979 (Ideal for custom front or rear disc brake plumbing).
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 (Perfect for upgrading factory front disc setups).
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1950-1979 (Split Window and Bay Window hydraulic upgrades).
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Custom chassis including Meyers Manx, Berrien, and Chenowth.
• Baja Bugs: Specifically for extended-travel rear trailing arms and custom beam front ends.
• Hydraulic Clutch Conversions: Compatible with most aftermarket VW hydraulic clutch kits.

SPECS

• Overall Length: 24 Inches (measured end-to-end including fittings).
• Hose Size: #3 AN (Dash 3).
• Fitting 1: -3 AN Straight Female Swivel.
• Fitting 2: -3 AN Straight Female Swivel.
• Inner Liner Material: High-grade PTFE (Teflon) for maximum fluid compatibility.
• Outer Braid Material: 304 Stainless Steel for abrasion and expansion resistance.
• Fluid Compatibility: Compatible with all DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids.
• Maximum Pressure Rating: Engineered for high-pressure automotive hydraulic systems.
• Fitting Material: Zinc-plated steel for superior strength and corrosion protection.

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Correct Adapters for VW Metric Fittings

Most vintage Volkswagens utilize M10x1.0 metric bubble or DIN flares for their hard lines and wheel cylinders. Since this Allstar line uses -3 AN (37-degree flare) fittings, you must use the appropriate adapter fittings to bridge the gap. Do not attempt to force an AN fitting onto a metric thread; instead, pick up a set of M10x1.0 to -3 AN male adapters. This ensures a metal-to-metal seal that won''t leak under the high pressures generated during emergency braking or heavy-footed off-roading.

2. Prevent Abrasive Rubbing with Proper Clocking

The beauty of the female swivel ends on this 24-inch line is that they allow you to ''''clock'''' the hose during installation. When routing your lines, especially on a long-travel Baja Bug or Sand Rail, ensure the hose has a natural loop that doesn''t kink when the suspension is at full droop or full compression. Use cushioned P-clips or zip-tie standoffs to keep the stainless steel braid from rubbing against the tires, shock bodies, or the chassis. Stainless steel braid is extremely abrasive; if left loose, it can act like a saw and cut through aluminum components or even your frame over time.

3. Thoroughly Bleed and Pressure Test

Because braided lines do not expand, you will notice that bleeding the air out of the system is much faster than with rubber hoses. However, the internal diameter of a #3 line is relatively small, which can sometimes trap tiny air bubbles. After installing your new Allstar lines, perform a full system bleed starting from the wheel furthest from the master cylinder. Once bled, have an assistant apply heavy pressure to the brake pedal while you inspect every connection point. Look for even the slightest hint of moisture; if found, ensure the flare is seated correctly. A dry connection is the only safe connection in a high-performance VW braking system.