Stainless Brake Line, Front, Fits Beetle 58-64, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your vintage Volkswagen''s stopping power and safety with the EMPI DOT-approved braided stainless steel front brake line. Designed specifically for the 1958 through 1964 Beetle, this high-performance component eliminates the "spongy" pedal feel often associated with aging or inferior rubber hoses. Unlike traditional rubber lines that expand under pressure, these stainless steel braided lines maintain their integrity, ensuring that every ounce of hydraulic pressure from your master cylinder is transmitted directly to the wheel cylinders. This results in a much firmer pedal, faster braking response, and increased confidence whether you are navigating city traffic or cruising down a coastal highway in your classic air-cooled ride.

What sets this brake line apart from the competition is its superior multi-layer construction. Featuring a heavy-duty Kevlar liner encased in a tightly woven stainless steel braid, this line is built to withstand the harshest road conditions and extreme pressure spikes. The stainless steel exterior acts as a rugged shield against road debris, salt, and corrosion, which are the primary enemies of original equipment brake components. Because these are DOT approved, you can rest easy knowing they meet strict federal safety standards for street use. Sold individually, these 18.5-inch lines are the ultimate "bolt-on" performance upgrade for any restorer or enthusiast looking to modernize their Beetle''s braking system without sacrificing the period-correct aesthetic of their front suspension.

FITMENT

This premium stainless brake line is designed for the front suspension of the following air-cooled Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964
• Note: Specifically fits King Pin front end configurations common to these years.

SPECS

Every EMPI stainless brake line is engineered to exacting tolerances to ensure a perfect fit and long-term reliability. Below are the technical specifications for the AC611400DOT:

• Material: Braided Stainless Steel Outer Jacket.
• Inner Liner: High-strength Kevlar reinforced core.
• Certification: DOT (Department of Transportation) Approved for street use.
• Total Length: 18.5 Inches.
• End Fittings: Dual Female threaded connections (10mm x 1.0 bubble flare compatible).
• Application: Front Left or Front Right (Sold Individually).
• Compatibility: Designed for drum brake systems and early disc conversions using stock-length hoses.
• Durability: Highly resistant to expansion, abrasion, and chemical degradation from brake fluid.

PRO TIPS

1. Avoid Line Twisting During Installation

When installing your new braided stainless lines, it is absolutely critical that you do not allow the hose to twist as you tighten the fittings. A twisted hose creates internal stress and can lead to premature failure or "kinking" when the suspension travels up and down. Always use a proper flare nut wrench (line wrench) on the fitting and a backing wrench on the mounting bracket to hold the hose steady. Once tightened, visually inspect the line to ensure the natural "lay" of the braid is straight and free of any rotational tension.

2. Verify Clearance at Full Lock

After you have installed the lines and before you bleed the system, you must check for clearance. Turn your steering wheel all the way to the left and then all the way to the right (full lock to lock). While doing this, have an assistant watch the brake line to ensure it does not rub against the tires, the shocks, or the trailing arms. Stainless steel braid is abrasive; if it rubs against another component, it can act like a saw over time. If the line is too close to a moving part, adjust the orientation of the mounting clip slightly to provide a safe arc of travel.

3. Use Fresh Fluid and Clean Connections

Since you are opening the hydraulic system, this is the perfect time to perform a full brake fluid flush. Always use a high-quality DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed container. Before removing your old rubber lines, use a wire brush and some brake cleaner to remove dirt and grease from the hard line fittings. This prevents contaminants from entering your wheel cylinders or master cylinder during the swap. Once the new EMPI lines are installed, bleed the system thoroughly starting from the wheel furthest from the master cylinder to ensure all air bubbles are removed for that rock-solid pedal feel.