Broke brake line.

[wrightz28]

Yup like the title says, the main line to the rear snapped on me. Thought it was the random wheel cylinder leak I've had since the summer. Went out to go get new cylinders and just get it done, but nope, BIG puddle under the opposite side of the truck that I knew had been leaking.

Then it hit me. Friday, I went and picked up some concrete bags, ohhh about 700 pounds worth (twice) and it sagged the rear quite a bit. Must of pushed on the line because it's got a hole in it just before the rear hose connection at the axle.

So, word of caution, if you're gonna load your Cherokee up, keep that in mind.

And.....as a rant, why the hell would Chrysler run a full line front to rear with zero, none zip zilch nada unions? Just one complete line?

[fredjacksonsan]

Ooops....

All one piece might be to have less leaks; PITA to replace.

[wrightz28]

Yeah, but living above the rust belt, it makes sense to have a few points inbetween the master and wheels to chose from when it needs to be replaced. ESPECIALLY say oh, about the second week of February when one is quarenteed to snap and it's oh, say -2*F for a high.

[fredjacksonsan]

But...then....(insert frustrated face here) when you're lying on your back on ice and the *(#$^#@$) things won't come apart, you're wishing for a one-piece unit.

Or a heated garage.

[Scrapper]

you can get a coupler or what i do is replace the whole line because wheres there one weak spot theres another.good luck...... scrapper....

[wrightz28]

Originally Posted by Scrapper

you can get a coupler or what i do is replace the whole line because wheres there one weak spot theres another.good luck...... scrapper....

Yeah that is what I have done before and will do on this time around as well. One run down the firewall to a union, a main run, union, then the final piece connecting it to the rear axle hose. It's the later piece that is a known problem for these trucks. I'd think having a short piece there would be stronger than one continuous run and elieviate the problem a bit.

Plus like I said, living here, where the salt to snow ratio is 4:1, it WILL need replaced again, no doubt as I plan on keeping this thing til the body completely rots out. Maybe anyways, as it's been sitting for the week, a power sterring hose decided to take a number one all over the garage apron.

Thing that really kills me, the previous owner clearly replaced the fuel line not too long ago, which is right below the brake line. Now, c'mon you're laying there replacing that line, why in the world would you not look the extra inch above it and realize "hey, that brake line don't look too good...".

[wrightz28]

Done.

I was expecting the flare nuts to bust all over the place, came right off. Granted I gave everything a nice bath in penetrating oil.

Replaced it in two sections, and all is well. Except I over bent the front half the first time around where it wraps around the firewall to the frame rail in the engine bay just below the ABS unit. uggh, had what 2 more bends and SNAP, F#$K!!!!!!

Oh well, another $4 later and all was well. And I got to drive my brother in laws SRT4. I was surprised, fun little thing to drive, even though in the end, it's still a Neon.

[wrightz28]

Oh yeah, and power steering hose is off the hook for now. For some stupid reason the oil pan gasket (nearly brand new) decided to start leaking. Geez, this thing needs a huge maxi pad inbetweent the frame rails.