Chevrolet Silverado: Stainless Steel Braided Brake Line Info
Rubber brake lines can be found between your factory metal brake lines and your brake calipers or drums. These lines are in place to allow movement with the front and rear hubs. Over time, the rubber deteriorates and will begin to swell in areas, resulting in reduced braking performance. Stainless steel braided variants eliminate this problem, and are designed to last years into the future.
This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado GMT800, GMT900, and K2XX (1999-Present).
Stainless steel braided brake lines are made to handle stronger pressures, and are designed to last longer than your factory rubber brake line. Many different aftermarket companies produce stainless brake lines, and some of those companies even have roots in competitive racing where their lines are tested on a regular basis. Thanks to the high demand for stronger brake lines, most companies have manufactured brake lines with high quality materials such as Kevlar and Teflon coatings to reduce internal friction.
Look for companies that meet the standards implemented by the DOT (Department of Transportation). Otherwise, you will not be able to drive your truck on public roads. Some manufacturers tailor to the customer by making their lines available in a range of colors and sizes that are pre-fit to match a certain size lift kit. Continue reading to view the several options available for your Chevy Silverado.
Crown Performance
Crown Performance stainless steel braided brake lines feature a five-layer design, which utilize Kevlar reinforcement and a Teflon inner core to eliminate friction as well as volumetric expansion. These brake lines feature a one-piece steel fitting and are compatible with all types of brake fluids. Crown Performance stock their brake lines in many different colors and sizes to suit the needs of owners with lifted Silverados.
Crown Performance brake line kits can be priced between $150 and $175 for the Chevrolet Silverado.
StopTech
StopTech brake lines are built with a PTFE (Teflon) inner line, and are covered in a layer of stainless steel braid. This braid is protected by a cover of PVC for maximum protection against chaffing. StopTech was founded in 1999 and has since developed a reputation as a highly respected name in the aftermarket as well as OEM brake products industry. The company has won several awards and patents for their braking system designs.
StopTech brake line kits for the Chevrolet Silverado are priced between $125 and $175.
Russell Performance
Russell Performance brake lines meet DOT standards and are factory assembled for easy installation. These brake lines feature zinc plated fittings to deter the effects of corrosion. Russell Performance is a division of Edelbrock, which is a company with over 70 years of proven results in the performance industry.
Russell Performance brake line kits for the Chevrolet Silverado cost between $90 and $130.
Goodridge
Goodridge stainless steel brake line kits include all the fittings and hardware you need for a trouble-free installation. Thanks to the stronger design of stainless steel, these brake lines will reduce stopping distance and eliminate the chatter associated with ABS braking. The company tests their lines to 3,000 psi, and have met the standards set by the DOT.
Goodridge has established themselves as the world's leading manufacturer in fluid transfer systems. They operate in many industries such as OEM, aftermarket automotive, motorcycle, general motorsport parts, and in defense sectors.
Goodridge stainless steel brake line kits can be found at prices between $130 and $160.
Common Questions
How Long Can I Expect Stainless Steel Brake Lines to Last?
Typically, stainless steel brake lines will outlast the life of the truck. Some companies offer a lifetime warranty.
What Differences Will I Notice With Stainless Steel Brake Lines Over My Factory Rubber Lines?
You will notice substantial differences in the way your Silverado's brake pedal feels. This difference will be much more noticeable if the condition of your factory brake lines were poor.
How Hard Is It to Install These Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines?
Most companies design there kits as a direct screw in replacement to the factory rubber brake lines. All you need to do is bleed the brakes after installation.
Featured Video: Stainless Steel vs Rubber Brake Lines
Related Discussion
- Stainless Steel Brake Brak Lines - ChevroletForum.com
