Brake line removal assistance needed

[DeeG]

I've decided that the R45 is due for some serious maintenance. And since the brake lines are approaching 40 years old, they are going to be replaced. I picked up some pretty braided stainless brake lines (and new pipes) from Moto Bins. I don't feel I need to replace the distributor piece that lives behind the headlight, BUT!!  I can't seem to loosen up the brake line from it without doing some damage to the attach point of said distributor

This piece:



When i put pressure on the brake line fitting, it pulls on the screw at the top and the whole thing twists. I've put some Kroil on the brake fitting, hopefully that might loosen it up a bit. Am I going to have to remove the distributor and have the better half clamp a pair of vise Grips on to it and hold it while I try to loosen it?  I really don't want to strip out those top threads.

[marcmax]

I had the same problem when I replaced my brake lines. Since I was replacing all three lines anyway (LS) I ended up taking the old lines and distribution manifold off as one piece. Clamped it in a bench vise and at that point it was easy to remove the old lines.

[DeeG]

I suppose that would just be the easiest thing to do. I wasn't going to replace the top pipe, that's why I was trying to avoid removing the whole thing.

Thanks!