Galfer Brake Line Question

[azcycle]

About to drop some coin on a new set of braided SS brake lines. I'm at Pashnit's website and they have three "kits" for the r65.  I'm hoping someone here can help me figure it out as my bike doesn't seem to fall into their categories easily.

Mine is a 1981 (not an LS) with the dual front ATE discs.  Which one do I use... my year isn't listed.   Anyone know?  My email to them has yet to be responded to.

- R65 ( 3 line front)     1982          FK003D315
- R65 LS Dual Front     1982-84     FK003D294-3

[Bob_Roller]

I went through the same process in 1991, when I wanted to replace the OEM lines with braided stainlesss lines on my '81 with dual front discs .

I tried 4 times to get the correct set,ended up going to an aftermarket BMW parts supplier, Luftmeister while I was on vacation in southern California, took the lines in had them made up right then in about 30 minutes .

I just replaced the lines on my '84 LS and I don't think the LS upper line from the master cylinder to the splitter will work on an '81 .

If you don't get any satisfaction with Galfer, the last set of lines I bought, was from Spiegler Performance .

They manufacture their own lines in house .

My suggestion if all else fails, is to send them your lines, and they will copy them, average turn around time is about 2 weeks .

http://www.spieglerusa.com/

They also rebuild OEM BMW rotors into semi floating rotors, if yours are worn out .

[Mike V]

Graeme,

I purchased a set for my 81 R65 w/dual ATE's from Ted Porter at Beemershop. No problems with fitment, they bolted right up. Give James a call in the parts department if you decide to investigate.  I can send you parts numbers and make along with cost later tonight when I return home.

http://s428.photobucket.com/albums/qq8/gruntyman66/81%20R650%20Restoration/Front%20Brakes%205-09/?start=40

[azcycle]

I've never actually replaced/bled brake lines before. It doesn't seem complicated but rather annoying.  Would I be able to do this myself without any sort of vacuum pump... or should I just buy the $60 vacuum pump to help speed up the process?

I've also read about how to force fluid up from the calipers to the master cylinder using a syringe. Thinking about going that route.

Thoughts?

[Mike V]

You may want to invest in some SpeedBleeders, very inexpensive and makes the job easy as a one-man operation.

[azcycle]

Speedbleeders "self seal" as you pump the brake, correct?  Would I open both left and right caliper speed bleeders or is it better to do one side first and then the other?

[Mike V]

One at a time is the way I do it...the caliper farthest away (longest line) from the master cylinder first. Get yourself plenty of fresh brake fluid, it may take a few reservoir fills. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't firm up the first couple of tries.

[azcycle]

Graeme,

I purchased a set for my 81 R65 w/dual ATE's from Ted Porter at Beemershop. No problems with fitment, they bolted right up. Give James a call in the parts department if you decide to investigate.  I can send you parts numbers and make along with cost later tonight when I return home.

http://s428.photobucket.com/albums/qq8/gruntyman66/81%20R650%20Restoration/Front%20Brakes%205-09/?start=40

Forgot to respond, Mike. Yes, that would be great... thank you.

[Mike V]

Graeme,

Here's the information for the steel braided lines I installed for my bike. I believe Ted has these made up from a local fabricator, don't quote me on that - you may want to give them a call for more information if you want to follow-up on the source. Contact James or Josh at the Beemershop. I've always been well served from Ted's staff.

02-014B PAM Stainless Brake Line Kit (Black)  $144  Ted Porter

[Red_Hen]

I bought mine from Spiegler - they offer different colors over the stainless lines.  My lines are red with black fittings - very "fitting" for my Red R65LS.
Also, had Spiegler convert my stationary rotors to floaters - mine were junk.  They do a nice job and deliver FAST.

I interviewed the owner and if the attachment shows up you can learn more about how brakes work and replacing lines.  

I think file is too large but if you want me to send story, if it doesn't load, just pm me and I'll send it over.

[azcycle]

Great article, Ken... thank you.  And thanks for the info, Mike.  Not sure I can afford to get floating rotors but that is probably what I'll do when these rotors are at the end of their life.  Even $150 for brake lines is a bit steep but I need to get something done soon. The old rubber brake lines are showing cracks and the braking is spongy.  

I'll check out Spiegler... and I did order a couple of speed bleeders.