Stainless Brake Line Kit, Beetle, 69-78

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and longevity of your classic air-cooled ride, there is no room for compromise in the braking system. The IAP Stainless Brake Line Kit for the 1969-1978 VW Beetle is the ultimate upgrade for enthusiasts who want to "set it and forget it." Unlike standard steel lines that are prone to internal scaling and external corrosionespecially in humid climates or areas where road salt is a factorthese stainless steel lines are engineered to withstand the elements indefinitely. This 7-piece kit provides a comprehensive replacement for your aging, brittle, or kinked factory hard lines, ensuring that your hydraulic pressure remains consistent and your pedal feel stays firm. Whether you are performing a body-off restoration or simply refreshing a daily driver, upgrading to stainless steel is a professional-grade decision that pays dividends in both safety and resale value.

Precision is paramount when plumbing a Volkswagen chassis, and this kit delivers the exact metric specifications required for a seamless installation. Each line is crafted to mimic the original factory routing, featuring the correct 10mm bubble flares and threaded fittings that match your master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and flexible brake hoses perfectly. Beyond the functional benefits, the high-luster finish of the stainless steel adds a clean, show-quality aesthetic to your undercarriage that standard PVF-coated or galvanized lines simply cannot match. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that your Beetle deserves parts that last as long as the legacy of the car itself, and this stainless steel hardware is the gold standard for late-model Type 1 brake systems.

FITMENT

This kit is specifically designed for the following Volkswagen Type 1 models with standard front beam suspension:

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
• Note: While many components are similar, this kit is primarily configured for Standard Beetle models. Super Beetle owners should verify front strut line requirements before purchase.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the 113-698-723S kit include:

• Material: High-grade 304 Stainless Steel for maximum corrosion resistance.
• Quantity: 7-Piece complete hard line set.
• Fitting Size: M10 x 1.0 Metric threads.
• Flare Type: DIN/ISO Bubble Flare (Standard for late VW).
• Configuration: Pre-bent for factory-style routing (minor shipping adjustments may be required).
• Compatibility: Fully compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids.
• Part Number Reference: 113-698-723S / 113698723S.

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Right Tools for the Job

When installing stainless steel brake lines, it is absolutely critical to use a dedicated 10mm flare nut wrench (also known as a line wrench) rather than a standard open-ended wrench. Stainless steel fittings are durable, but the hex heads can still be rounded off if the tool doesn''t grip all sides of the nut. Additionally, because stainless steel is harder than mild steel, it requires a bit more patience to get the threads started. Always start the fittings by hand for several turns to ensure you haven''t cross-threaded the master cylinder or wheel cylinders before applying final torque.

2. Management of "Shipping Tweaks"

Due to the length of the long main line that runs through the chassis tunnel, these kits are often carefully looped or slightly bent to fit into shipping cartons. When you receive your kit, lay the lines out on a flat surface or against your old lines to compare. If you need to make minor adjustments to the bends, do not use pliers, which can mar the stainless finish. Instead, use a handheld tubing bender or your thumbs to create smooth, gradual radii. Avoid sharp "kinks" at all costs, as these create flow restrictions and stress points in the metal.

3. Clean Your Chassis Clips

Before snapping your new stainless lines into the metal tabs on the Beetle chassis, take a moment to clean the mounting points and ensure the rubber grommets (if applicable) are in good condition. Over time, road grime and old brake fluid can build up in these clips, which can lead to vibration or abrasion. Since you are installing a "lifetime" product like stainless steel, spending the extra ten minutes to ensure the lines are securely fastened and not vibrating against the frame will prevent "line hum" and ensure the installation looks as professional as it performs.