Atom 3 brake lines - another question

[meladdo]

Looking at many pictures and video clips of the Atom in action I have noticed the braded rubber brake lines running along the suspension wishbones - this is normal for a car of this type -

but I have just noticed the same braded hoses running down the cars centre chassis rails - am I correct in thinking all the Atoms brake lines are steel braded rubber hoses? or is this an upgrade or retro fit on some owners cars? and not factory fit?

cheers

[John Scherrer]

Standard Goodridge steel-braided brake and clutch lines as fitted by the factory (clutch on the right of the picture)

[meladdo]

After a little research it seems the Goodridge lines are specifically designed for the purpose of complete systems install. Its a while since I delved into this type of high tech componant.........always wanted to fit out a car with these years ago.....they were not recommended years ago as they would grOW as you pressed the brake........and were only used in high flex areas - like body to caliper.....or body to rear axle - as a link - similar places to where manufactures fit the standard rubber non braded hoses.

How tech moves on.........


Just out of curiosity is there a recommended life span for them? as I cant see how you could check them for cracks or damage?

[meladdo]

I cant help but mention how the welds on that chassis look - the chassis looks a work of art......loving it

[ragezx14r]

I think the rubber only lines would have more 'grow' in them and the braided lines would restrict this.

Darren

[Terry Kennedy]

[quote="ragezx14r"]
I think the rubber only lines would have more 'grow' in them and the braided lines would restrict this.[/quote]

Right. The 1st-generation stainless lines were intended to get around this, but had their own problem of the braid being worn through by rubbing on chassis / body components, and then puncturing the inner brake line. Current lines have a Teflon (most commonly, occasionally some other material) jacket over the braid to prevent this from happening.

[meladdo]

I only quiry this I I was going to build a westie a Looong time ago and was told that doing all the brake lines in flexible braded pipe will not pass the SVA at the time....

I see now though these lines are specifically for that purpose - I have not been able to find any recommendation for changing these lines at any given service interval........so technology has move on a long way with these line - look the business too!!