Brake Hose 110mm Universal

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your vintage air-cooled Volkswagen, the braking system is the one area where you can never afford to cut corners. This EMPI 110mm Universal Brake Hose is a critical component for maintaining hydraulic integrity, especially in custom configurations or specific Type 1 applications. Over decades of service, original rubber brake lines undergo a process of internal degradation that many owners overlook. While the exterior of the hose might appear serviceable, the inner lining frequently swells and collapses, creating a "one-way valve" effect. This allows the immense pressure of your foot to force fluid to the wheels, but prevents the weaker return springs from pushing that fluid back to the master cylinder. The result is a dragging brake, excessive heat, and premature shoe or pad wear that can leave you stranded or damage your drums and rotors. Replacing your aging lines with these high-quality EMPI units ensures that your pedal feel remains firm and your release remains instantaneous.

Appletree Automotive understands that many VW enthusiasts are building more than just stock daily drivers, which is why we offer this specific 110mm (approximately 4.33 inches) male-to-female hose. This unique configuration is essential for various custom disc brake conversions, sandrail builds, and specific axle requirements where a standard length hose simply won''t provide the correct clearance. Whether you are restoring a classic Beetle or engineering a high-performance Dune Buggy, these hoses provide the flexibility and pressure resistance required to handle modern driving conditions. Constructed with high-tensile reinforced rubber and corrosion-resistant steel fittings, these lines are designed to withstand the harsh environments of both the open road and the off-road trails. Don''t let a five-dollar part ruin a multi-thousand-dollar restoration; upgrade to fresh EMPI hoses and experience the peace of mind that comes with a responsive, reliable braking system.

FITMENT

Primary Applications: VW Beetle (Type 1): All Years (Custom or specific jumper applications) VW Super Beetle: All Years VW Karmann Ghia: All Years VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): Universal Fitment VW Thing (Type 181): All Years Custom Dune Buggies, Sandrails, and Baja Bugs Meyers Manx and other fiberglass kit cars Specific Disc Brake Conversion Kits requiring M/F extensions

SPECS

• Overall Length: 110mm (4.33 inches)
• Fitting End A: Male Threaded (M10 x 1.0 Bubble Flare)
• Fitting End B: Female Threaded (M10 x 1.0 Bubble Flare)
• Material: Heavy-duty, high-pressure reinforced rubber
• Fitting Material: Zinc-plated steel for superior corrosion resistance
• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-6707-B
• Fluid Compatibility: Compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids

PRO TIPS

Identifying the "Phantom Drag"

One of the most common diagnostic hurdles in air-cooled VWs is a car that pulls to one side or has a "heavy" feeling after the brakes have been applied. If you find that your brake pedal is hard to return or your wheels are staying locked even after you release the pedal, do not immediately blame the wheel cylinders or the master cylinder. Often, the internal wall of an old brake hose has delaminated, creating a flap of rubber that allows fluid to flow in but acts as a check-valve preventing it from flowing back. If you suspect this, safely crack the bleeder screw on the sticking wheel; if a burst of pressurized fluid comes out and the wheel suddenly spins freely, your hose is internally collapsed and must be replaced immediately.

Preventing Hose Torsion During Installation

When installing these 110mm hoses, it is absolutely vital that you do not "twist" the rubber line as you tighten the fittings. A twisted hose creates internal stress that significantly shortens its lifespan and can lead to a catastrophic burst under heavy emergency braking. Always thread the male end into its seat first, then bring the female end or the hard line to the hose. Use a proper flare nut wrench (line wrench) to ensure you don''t round off the fittings. Before the final torque, ensure the hose has a natural, relaxed curve. If the hose looks like a spiral or has a kink, loosen the fitting, realign it, and retighten.

The Importance of a Full System Flush

Whenever you open the hydraulic system to replace a hose, it is the perfect time to perform a complete brake fluid flush. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the fluid and causes internal corrosion in your metal hard lines and cylinders. Since you will already be bleeding the air out of the system after installing your new EMPI 110mm hoses, we highly recommend pushing fresh fluid through the entire system until it runs clear at all four corners. This simple extra step protects your new hoses and ensures your entire braking system operates at peak efficiency for years to come.