Source: 2007 Q4 Beartracks
Tips from EAA Chapter 105 – Benton Holzwarth Brake Line Fittings by Randall Henderson
When I was putting my RV-6 together, I was a bit skeptical of those plastic fittings that are used on the brake reservoir and master cylinders. A couple of years later my concern was justified when the tee fitting, way up high on the back side of the firewall, began leaking messy brake fluid all over my firewall blanket. I tried in vain to tighten the fitting but eventually gave up, and many curses and contortions and sore muscles later, had the tee fitting and also the elbow fittings at the master cylinders replaced with brass versions.
I know I’m not alone on this, because at the last meeting, I mentioned this to our host who I’d noticed was installing the standard plastic fittings just like I had, and several others chimed in in agreement. So my ‘tip’ for people building their planes is to chuck those plastic fittings and instead use brass versions.
The specific part numbers for the brass fittings, 1/4″ size, are: 271P-04×02 (male run tee) 269P-04×02 (male elbow) I couldn’t find the 272P in the current Aircraft Spruce catalog, though they may have them if you ask. Wicks’ catalog lists both. Note that the application may be different depending on whether you have nylaflow or polyflo tubing, so pay attention to the directions and if in doubt, talk to the manufacturer or an EAA technical counselor.
Editors note: Some applications also require that a ‘tube insert’ (pn. 2030-4) be inside the tubing to keep it from leaking.
Note from Bob Barrows: I prefer aluminum aircraft type fittings and aluminum line rather than brass or plastic fittings.