C5 Brake Pipes

[UVG]

Hi Guys

 

just a quick question...
i'm running a C5 Estate ('05) i'm trying to confirm the Brake pipe diameter, ends and flare for the pipes that run from front to back
i got an advisory on them at the last MOT and i would like to get them sorted before the next one
the Citroen parts directory on line give most of the pipe diameters and lengths but not theses two
i have had to replace the suspension pipe from front to back it was an absolute pig of a job...but most of it was ok it was only rusted in a couple of placed near the rear subframe
i'm hoping the brake pipes will be the same. i'm planning to cut them under the cabin put a new flare on them and then splice in a new length back to the back
i think the pipe diameter is 3/16" (or 4.7mm) i'm pretty sure the flare is the bubble type but i dont know what the threat type is on the ends
can anyone confirm the details?
i dont want to spend money on the wrong size flare tool or the wrong size pipe
thanks for any info
Cheers
UVG

[paul.h]

Off hand I do not know the pipe diameter without measuring it but when I have made up brake pipes I have used the old fittings again if still in good condition.

[UVG]

nice idea...but i'm expecting to have get them out with a pair of mole grips after i have rounded them off  :wacko:

 

also when my car is off the road i'm stranded so i would rather have all the bits on site so i can make new ones

 

but thanks for the thought  :D

[paul.h]

If you do not have a brake pipe spanner with the cut out, ( http://www.halfords.com/workshop-tools/tools/spanners-wrenches/halfords-professional-flare-spanner?cm_mmc=Google+PLA-_-Tools-_-Spanners+&+Wrenches-_-470112&istCompanyId=b8708c57-7a02-4cf6-b2c0-dc36b54a327e&istItemId=miaiwl&istBid=tztm&_$ja=tsid:94971|cid:865695754|agid:42483196303|tid:pla-328474287026|crid:203186066568|nw:g|rnd:16110831032166432937|dvc:c|adp:1o2|mt:|loc:1006876&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4fbhwfbQ2gIVyLTtCh24owJ5EAUYAiABEgKcyPD_BwE ) then you can cut the pipe just above the fitting and use a 6 point socket so no need to use mole grips. You could try a few days before though to see if the fitting will easily loosen with the pipe spanner or a good fitting open ended spanner. A large adjustable spanner may be better than a smaller one since it will have a larger contact area on the fitting. If you then find it will not loosen, then go for the new part. A few days before doing the job I would also apply wd40 to the pipe where it goes through the fitting to stop the pipe twisting as the fitting is undone.

[UVG]

all good advice but for what they cost if i can confirm their size i would rather have some ends in the tool box

 

to be honest i dont have a brake spanner i have always managed with the little mole grips mainly because once they are out i replace them  :D and then cover them in copper slip

 

but i suspect these ones have been in since it was built so would rather renew if i can

[paul.h]

As a last resort, I find stillsons are better than mole grips and do less damage. Steve at coastline taxis is our C5 expert on here but has not been on for a few weeks. You could try a message to him but I am not sure if the email alerts are working. You could always try a phone call to coastline taxis in South Shields and ask for the workshop and I am sure he would be happy to help. There are a couple of phone numbers 0191 455 2222 and 0191 455 1133 on the internet.