Today I started running brake lines in the fuselage. I started by installing some 45 degree fittings that pass thru the gear leg mount and will point the brake lines down the gear legs to the wheels. Next, I installed some 90 degree fittings that pass between the area under the seats into the tunnel. Then I formed up some brake lines to connect the two.
I have had a quick lesson on flaring lines from my tech counselor Gary, but this was the first time I’ve formed lines for real. Gary warned me that it was only a matter of time before I flared an end before putting the nut on… and he was right. I did it. Twice.
After some choice words directed at myself and some new brake line cut to size and formed (with all the pieces in the proper spots), I got the two lines formed.
I’m deviating from the plans again a bit here as I am going to install a parking brake in the plane. I got a kit from AirWard that comes with a nice machined bracket that replaces the stock firewall bracket and allows the Matco PVPV-D valve to be bolted in place. I assembled the bracket, drilled out the old bracket, and riveted in place the new. The valve and fittings are only finger tight at this time as I need some thread sealant before torquing them down.
With the parking brake valve in place, I was able to begin bending the brake lines that run from the tunnel fittings to the brake valve. These run along the bottom of the tunnel, bend up the back-side of the firewall, around the recess in the firewall, then cross over to the brake valve. I left them a bit long until I have the brake valve permanently mounted, but they are pretty close to the final shape.
Overall, it was a fun afternoon working with some new materials.
Oh, I’m working on finding the best angle for the camera for work in the fuse. Give me a few sessions to get it right!
Thanks for the great photos of the parking valve. The directions are a little annoying