Cunifer or Copper Nickel line is a “new” way to make brake lines that has actually been around for many years. In fact its first commercial use dates back to the 70’s!
In this post I’m going to convince you why cunifer copper nickel line is the right choice for ANY vehicle and definitely the easiest replacement available for the shop or shade tree mechanic.
1. Cunifer copper nickel brake line is super flexible.
In fact in most cases you won’t even need tools (although having a pair of brake line pliers can make tight bends easier). This is ESSENTIAL when routing complicated line paths from the engine compartment to the rear wheels. If you are thinking of replacing the longer lines to the rear of your vehicle you will be working very hard if you don’t use conifer copper nickel brake line.
2. Cunifer copper nickel brake line is corrosion resistant on the outside
The exposed conifer copper nickel brake line is still 88.7% copper. This means that all the road salt and grime you pick up in the winter is ineffective at rusting the outside of the tube. Normal steel brake line is coated in a corrosion resistant material. If this material fades or is scratched the plain steel line underneath is exposed and WILL RUST
3. Cunifer copper nickel brake line is corrosion resistant on the INSIDE
One major thing people don’t realize about brake systems is that even DOT 3 or 4 brake fluid will absorb ambient moisture and hold it in suspension. Inside those steel brake lines there is no epoxy or zinc alloy coating to protect your lines. As they rust the material is carried around and collects in the important parts of your brake system.
In contrast conifer copper nickel line is MADE OF 88.7% COPPER. This means that inside and out the protection is the same.
4. Cunifer copper nickel brake line is soft
When it comes time to make brake line fitting connections you will need to flare the end of the tube. If you use a professional tool like our high speed flaring kit this point isn’t that important because it works well on any type of tube. However if you have one of the wingnut style readily available cheap tools you are in for a real hard time if you are using steel tube. But not so with conifer copper nickel tube. End forms and flares are easy with such a soft material and you will really enjoy making them instead of cursing.
Final Thoughts
You should NEVER try to repair a brake line, if you get a break or pinhole the whole line should be replaced, it’s just the only way to be safe. Replacing entire lines can be a real challenge and forming and routing the new lines is enough to take up the whole day. If you decide to go with steel lines good luck, take your time and you can do it. If you want to make the job easier buy some cunifer copper nickel tube, you won’t regret it.
