3/16in Brake Line Coil Steel 25ft ALL48040

OVERVIEW

When you''re deep into a pan-off restoration or building a high-performance sand rail from the ground up, your braking system is the one area where you can never afford to cut corners. This Allstar Performance 3/16-inch Steel Brake Line Coil provides the ultimate solution for custom plumbing projects that require precision, durability, and a clean, professional finish. Unlike pre-cut, straight-length lines that often leave you with awkward unions and potential leak points, this 25-foot coil allows for continuous, seamless runs from your master cylinder all the way to your wheel cylinders or calipers. Whether you are navigating the tight confines of a Type 1 Beetle center tunnel or routing lines along the rugged frame of a custom woods buggy, this high-grade steel tubing offers the structural integrity needed to handle the extreme hydraulic pressures of a performance braking system.

As a specialist in air-cooled VWs, I know that the environment these vehicles live in can be harshfrom salt air at the beach to the mud and grit of the off-road trail. That is why the ALL48040 brake line features a robust galvanized zinc coating. This sacrificial layer provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring that your brake lines won''t succumb to rust and pitting after just a few seasons. The steel construction is specifically engineered for ease of manipulation; it is rigid enough to maintain its shape once bent, yet malleable enough to take a clean flare without splitting. For the builder who demands a "show-quality" layout or the racer who needs a reliable, vibration-resistant hydraulic circuit, this 25-foot coil is the industry standard for a reason. It gives you the freedom to create custom bends that follow the contours of your chassis perfectly, ensuring a much cleaner installation than any "universal" kit ever could.

FITMENT

This 3/16-inch steel brake line is the standard diameter for the vast majority of air-cooled Volkswagen applications and custom tube-chassis builds. While it is a universal plumbing component, it is the primary choice for the following models:

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1946 through 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• VW Bus / Type 2 (Split & Bay Window): 1950 through 1979
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Perfect for Berrien, Meyers Manx, and Chenowth style frames.
• General Automotive: Any vehicle utilizing a 3/16" O.D. hydraulic brake or clutch system.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the Allstar Performance ALL48040 brake line coil:

• Tubing Diameter: 3/16 Inch (Outside Diameter).
• Total Length: 25 Feet (Continuous Coil).
• Material: High-quality automotive-grade steel.
• Finish: Galvanized Zinc Coating for superior rust prevention.
• Wall Thickness: Engineered for high-pressure hydraulic brake applications.
• Part Number: ALL48040.
• Manufacturer: Allstar Performance.
• Compatibility: Compatible with all standard 3/16" flare nuts (SAE or Metric, depending on your fittings).
• Note: Coil does not include flare nuts; must be purchased separately.

PRO TIPS

1. Master the Double Flare and Bubble Flare

Before you start cutting, identify exactly which flare your fittings require. Most vintage VW master cylinders and wheel cylinders utilize a Metric Bubble Flare (DIN), while many aftermarket disc brake kits or Wilwood components might use an SAE 45-degree Double Flare. Since this is a raw steel coil, you have the flexibility to flare either end to suit your specific needs. Always use a high-quality flaring tool and a drop of brake fluid on the die to ensure a smooth, crack-free seat. Don''t forget to slide your flare nuts onto the line BEFORE you make the flarenothing is more frustrating than a perfect flare with no nut behind it!

2. Use a Mandrel Tubing Bender for Tight Radiuses

While steel line is pliable, attempting to bend it by hand can lead to kinking, which creates a significant restriction in fluid flow and a structural weak point. For the cleanest look and safest performance, use a dedicated 3/16" mandrel tubing bender. This allows you to create tight 90-degree turns around the torsion housing or master cylinder without collapsing the inner diameter of the tube. If you are routing through the tunnel, take your time to plan the path to avoid interference with the shift rod or clutch cable.

3. Secure and Protect Your Lines

Vibration is the enemy of hard lines. Ensure you use rubber-lined P-clips or plastic line retainers every 12 to 18 inches to secure the line to your chassis. This prevents the steel from "work-hardening" and eventually cracking due to harmonic vibration. Additionally, if your lines pass through a bulkhead or a hole in the tinware, always use a rubber grommet. A steel line rubbing against a sharp metal edge will eventually vibrate through, leading to a catastrophic loss of brake pressure. Taking these extra steps ensures your Appletree Auto parts perform flawlessly for the life of your vehicle.