Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are brake compression fittings illegal?
Yes, using compression fittings to repair brake lines is illegal for public transportation vehicles and is banned in many states for passenger vehicles as well. Additionally, using compression fittings can cause a vehicle to fail inspection.
2. Is it OK to use compression fittings on brake lines?
No, compression fittings should not be used to join brake lines. They are designed for lower-pressure lines such as fuel, compressed air, and water.
3. What are the different types of brake fittings?
There are several types of brake fittings, including banjo fittings, center support fittings, male fittings, female fittings, and other/special fittings.
4. What is the best material for brake fittings?
The best materials for brake fittings are aluminum, stainless steel, and steel. These materials are strong, resistant, and able to withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for use in braking systems.
5. Why are compression brakes banned?
Compression brakes are banned in some areas due to the loud noise they create, often described as "growling", "machine gun", or "jackhammer" sounds. These loud noises can be disruptive, especially in residential areas, leading to prohibitions on compression braking within municipal limits.
6. Why are trucks not allowed to engine brake?
Trucks are not allowed to engine brake in certain areas because the intense loud noise it creates can be disruptive to communities, particularly in residential areas during the night and early morning hours. Signs prohibiting engine braking are placed on intersections passing through or near these areas.
7. Should you use Teflon tape on brake line fittings?
No, it is not recommended to use Teflon tape on brake line fittings. Teflon tape won't help and can potentially cause issues, such as little pieces of tape inside the ABS controller holding the poppet valves off their seats, leading to leaks and malfunctioning of the ABS controller.
8. How much psi can a compression fitting hold?
Compression fittings are capable of handling extreme temperature and pressure, with a rating of up to 5000 PSI.
9. What are the two types of brake line fittings?
The two types of brake line fittings are banjo fittings, used to connect two ends of a brake line or tube in a single plane, and compression fittings, which allow for joining two pieces of the same size pipe together in the same plane.
10. What is the most common brake line fitting size?
The most common brake line fitting size is 3/16-inch, also known as CNF-3, which is used in almost every car or truck worldwide. Another common size is ¼ inch, which was commonly used in vehicles manufactured in the 1950s.
11. Do you use Teflon on brake fittings?
No, it is not recommended to use Teflon tape on any brake fitting as it won't help and can potentially cause issues.
12. Should you grease brake pad clips?
Yes, it is recommended to apply a thin coat of brake lube to the outboard abutment clips where the brake pads ride. Proper lubrication is crucial for optimal braking performance and maximizing the service life of the brake pads.