However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general overview. This is not a comprehensive guide and should be supplemented with a repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy Lumina. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety precautions.
Before You Begin:
* Safety First: This involves working with your vehicle's braking system. Any mistakes could be deadly. Use jack stands, not just a jack, to support the vehicle. Wear safety glasses.
* Gather Tools and Materials: You'll need a variety of tools, including:
* Wrench set (metric)
* Flare nut wrench set (to avoid damaging brake lines)
* Pipe wrench (potentially for stubborn fittings)
* Tube bender (to shape new lines accurately)
* Double flare tool (to create the proper ends on new brake lines)
* Brake line tubing (correct size and material)
* New brake line fittings (matching your original lines)
* Brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified in your owner's manual)
* New brake fluid reservoir cap (recommended)
* Rags or shop towels
* Safety glasses
* Jack and jack stands
* Wheel chocks
Steps (General Outline – Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First! Secure the vehicle safely on jack stands. Engage the parking brake.
2. Drain Brake Fluid: Open the bleeder valves on each wheel caliper to relieve pressure in the system before disconnecting any lines. Collect the fluid in a container.
3. Locate and Identify Lines: Carefully inspect the existing brake lines to determine which sections need replacing and plan your routing for the new lines. Take pictures or make notes. Note the location and type of fittings.
4. Disconnect Old Lines: Use the appropriate wrenches to carefully disconnect the old brake lines at the fittings. Be prepared for some resistance and potential fluid leaks. Use rags to catch any spilled brake fluid.
5. Measure and Cut New Lines: Measure the required lengths of new brake line tubing, adding extra length to account for bends and fittings. Use the tube bender to create smooth, consistent bends that mimic the original lines' routing.
6. Double Flare the Ends: Use the double flare tool to create the correct flares on the ends of the new brake lines, ensuring a proper seal at the fittings.
7. Connect New Lines: Carefully connect the new brake lines to the fittings, using the appropriate wrenches. Tighten the fittings to the manufacturer's specified torque.
8. Bleed the Brakes: Once all lines are connected, carefully bleed the brakes at each wheel to remove air from the system. This is crucial for proper braking function. Follow the proper bleeding procedure as detailed in your repair manual (usually starting with the furthest wheel from the master cylinder).
9. Test and Inspect: After bleeding, test the brakes thoroughly in a safe, open area. Check for leaks around all connections.
Important Considerations:
* Proper Fittings: Using the wrong fittings can lead to leaks and brake failure.
* Correct Tubing: Use brake line tubing of the correct size and material.
* Bleeding Procedure: Improper bleeding can lead to spongy brakes or brake failure.
* Torque Specifications: Tighten all fittings to the correct torque specifications to prevent leaks and damage.
Again, this is a simplified overview. You absolutely should consult a detailed repair manual for your 1995 Chevy Lumina before attempting this repair. If you're unsure about any step, it's best to leave this job to a professional mechanic. Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.
