Replacing brake lines on your car can be a challenging but necessary DIY task. When space is tight and removing brake lines entirely is difficult, an On Car Flaring Tool becomes indispensable. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? This guide, drawing on expert advice from experienced mechanics, will help you navigate the world of on car flaring tools and select the best one for your needs.
Understanding Brake Flaring Tools and On-Car Needs
Brake flaring is the process of creating a specialized end on a brake pipe that allows it to seal properly when connected to other brake components. This flare is crucial for ensuring a leak-proof brake system, vital for safety. Traditionally, flaring tools were bench-mounted, requiring removal of the brake line from the vehicle. However, on car flaring tools, also known as on-vehicle flaring tools, are designed to perform this task directly on the car. This saves significant time and effort, especially when dealing with corroded or труднодоступных brake lines.
The need for an on car flaring tool often arises when:
- Replacing sections of damaged brake lines without removing the entire line.
- Working in tight engine bays or undercarriages where bench-mounted tools are impractical.
- Repairing brake lines quickly and efficiently without extensive disassembly.
Top Recommended On Car Flaring Tools: User-Tested and Approved
Based on real-world feedback from automotive professionals and DIY enthusiasts, here are some of the top recommended on car flaring tools, categorized by type and price point:
1. Premium Choice: Sykes Pickavant Flaremaster 2
Sykes Pickavant is widely regarded as the gold standard in brake flaring tools. The Flaremaster 2 is their on car flaring tool offering, praised for its precision, reliability, and versatility. Users in online forums consistently recommend it for both occasional DIY and professional use.
Sykes Pickavant flaring tool recommendation from a forum user
Pros:
- High Quality Flares: Consistently produces accurate and reliable flares, essential for brake system integrity.
- On and Off-Car Use: Versatile design allows for flaring pipes both on and off the vehicle.
- Durable and Long-lasting: Built to withstand frequent use and provide years of reliable service.
- Suitable for Various Pipe Materials: Can handle steel, stainless steel (with optional upgrade), and кунифер brake pipes.
- Upgradeable: Optional dies and rams are available for different pipe sizes and materials, including stainless steel and larger Mercedes pipes.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Significantly more expensive than budget options, which may be a barrier for occasional users.
- Second-hand Market Dependency for Budget: To get within a lower budget, users often need to look for second-hand kits on platforms like eBay.
User Feedback Highlights:
Forum users emphasize the Flaremaster 2’s superior performance and long-term value. One user, “Fishyboy,” after seeking recommendations, opted for the Flaremaster 2 and received positive confirmation from another user, “bricol,” who stated they had been using the original Flaremaster for over 30 years with consistent success. Another user, “Ruffian,” highlighted its on-car capability and upgrade options for stainless steel pipes.
2. Handheld and Vehicle-Mounted Options: Franklin/Powerhand Type
The Franklin Tools AF2003 type, also sold under the Powerhand brand, represents a popular handheld on car flaring tool design. This type is favored for its ease of use, especially when working directly on the vehicle.
Pros:
- Easy to Use On-Vehicle: Designed for handheld operation, making it ideal for tight spaces and on-car repairs.
- Suitable for Copper and Кунифер Pipes: Effective for softer pipe materials commonly used in brake lines.
- Affordable Copies Available: More budget-friendly copies are available, offering similar functionality at a lower cost.
- Recommended for DIY Use: Many DIY mechanics find this type sufficient for occasional brake line repairs.
Cons:
- Can Be Difficult with Steel Pipes: Some users report difficulty flaring steel pipes, especially when working by hand under a car.
- Durability Concerns with Cheaper Copies: Lower-priced copies may have reduced durability and potentially break under stress.
- Potential for Breakage: One user, “minimutly,” shared an experience of breaking the male former tip after loaning out a Franklin-type tool.
User Feedback Highlights:
Users like “optima21,” “steveo3002,” and “Munkul” recommend the Franklin type for DIY and occasional use, particularly for copper and кунифер pipes. “steveo3002” even states that for DIY, it is “just as good really unless you run a production line” compared to more expensive bench-mounted tools. However, “minimutly” advises caution when using it on steel and highlights a personal negative experience with a Sealey branded tool, emphasizing the importance of tool quality.
3. Budget-Friendly Kits: Machine Mart Clarke and Similar
For users who need an on car flaring tool for infrequent use and are on a tight budget, kits like the Clarke CHT229 from Machine Mart offer a more affordable entry point. These kits often include a basic flaring tool and pipe cutter.
Pros:
- Very Affordable: Significantly cheaper than premium brands, making them accessible to budget-conscious DIYers.
- Adequate for Occasional Use: Can be sufficient for completing brake line repairs a few times a year.
- Includes Basic Pipe Cutting Tool: Some kits include a pipe cutter, offering added value.
Cons:
- Quality and Durability Concerns: May not be as durable or precise as higher-end tools.
- Requires Practice: Achieving consistent and reliable flares may require more practice and careful setup.
- Potential for Distortion: “ajlelectronics” mentions that with cheap kits, distortion can occur, and getting the clamp height correct is crucial.
User Feedback Highlights:
“ajlelectronics” and “Nomad” share experiences with budget-friendly tools, with “Nomad” using a Clarke set for a restoration project. “ajlelectronics” acknowledges the “crude” nature of cheaper kits but states they can produce “perfect flares” with proper technique, emphasizing the importance of “getting the height in the clamp correct.” “Nomad” recommends practicing on scrap pipes first to get the hang of using these tools.
Choosing the Right On Car Flaring Tool for You
Selecting the best on car flaring tool depends on several factors:
- Frequency of Use: For professional mechanics or frequent DIYers, investing in a high-quality tool like the Sykes Pickavant Flaremaster 2 is justified for its durability and reliability. For occasional use, a Franklin/Powerhand type or a budget kit might suffice.
- Pipe Material: Consider the type of brake pipes you’ll be working with most often. For steel pipes, a more robust tool like the Sykes Pickavant is recommended. For softer copper or кунифер pipes, Franklin-type tools or even budget kits can be effective.
- Budget: Set a realistic budget. Premium tools offer long-term value and performance, while budget options can be suitable for infrequent use.
- On-Vehicle vs. Off-Vehicle Work: If you primarily need to flare pipes directly on the car, prioritize handheld on car flaring tools. If you have the flexibility to remove brake lines, a bench-mounted tool (though not the focus of this article) could also be considered.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right on car flaring tool is crucial for successful and safe brake line repairs. While premium tools like the Sykes Pickavant Flaremaster 2 offer unparalleled performance and durability, more affordable options like Franklin/Powerhand types and budget kits can also be effective, especially for DIY users. By considering your needs, budget, and the feedback from experienced users, you can select the best on car flaring tool to confidently tackle your brake line replacement projects.
