LionZoo

This has been discussed several times, but I haven't seen anything definitive so I'm putting out the question here. I'm considering upgrading to braided stainless steel brakelines, but I've heard mixed reviews. My application is primarily for "spirited" mountain driving with all the condition variables that exist for such uses (e.g. bumps, dust, gravel in the corners etc.). I'm not sure whether such conditions would test the reliability of the lines to the points where I should stay with the OEM rubber lines. Any opinions?

Also, if I were to go with braided lines, which ones are good? I've heard that certain lines such as the Goodridge ones need some slight jury rigging for them to fit. Are there lines out there that fit on the RX-8 right out of the box without any clearance isuses? Also, are adaptor ends necessary?

Thanks.

L8APEX

I am happy with mine, the pedal feels much firmer under heavy braking, both on track and in the mountains. I have not had any reliability issues, and don't see why they would be less reliable than rubber hoses, they have some flex to them, and they are tolerant of the everyday motions of the car. Remember, they are braided, not solid SS lines.

I got mine from Mazdatrix...>>Brake Lines @ Mazdatrix.com They fit without any modifications, and came with all of the parts that are needed, that are not already on the car.

Hope that helps.

Paul_in_DC

Hey L8, I see those lines at Mazdatrix... good price, but they don't list the manufacturer... are they actually made by Mazdatrix or by someone else?

TIA

L8APEX

not sure, I think they do. you can always ask them. all of the guys in our local track junkie group have them installed. they are a good bit cheaper than the goodridge lines, and do the same job. so if you don't need a name brand, then these are a good option. and, they are always in stock. when I needed mine, no one had the goodridge lines in stock.

alnielsen

iTrader: (4)

There is a reason that Braided Brake Lines are not DOT approved and installed as OEM on performance cars. The government believes that the braid can trap moisture and dirt. The moisture would cause corrosion to the braid and the dirt would become an abrasive to the braid and the inner plastic tube. Once the braid is compromised, the tube will expand and brake once pressure is applied. I have seen some braided lines with a plastic sleeve placed outside of the braid. I don't know if this would eliminate the possibility of the failure, but I don't believe they are still a approved part.

L8APEX

I learn something new everyday. They are listed as DOT brake lines, don't know if that means DOT approved. Could not hurt to ask them.

I inspect mine everytime I change pads out for track weekends. May not be a bad idea to sleeve them though.

iridearocket

I changed my brake fluid to Super Blue and my car stops on a dime with minimal brake fade, even after 30 minutes of track thrashing. The rotors are stock with track (not race) pads. In my oppinion, you would really need to be doing some track days or even timed events in order to really need braided lines. That being said, you may enjoy the quicker response time of the brake pedal. Personally, I don't mind the feel of the pedal as it is just now and I can control the car while trail braking without any issues.

Only disadvantage of high temp brake fluid is that you need to change it every year.