Re: [AMC-List] my 62 classic project

[<francis.swygert@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The XJ hoses only work on 82-83 calipers. Those are the same as XJs and
use a GM caliper. The earlier models use a Bendix/Ford style caliper
which uses a different size hose fitting. For those mid 80s Ford EXP
banjo hoses/bolts work (I don't think the normal Escort had banjo
hoses?). I bought a set of 82 hoses thinking they'd fit my 80 calipers
-- they didn't! You can also buy a brass "brake T" with one male and two
female fittings and use the regular brake hoses. I'm running that setup
now. The male end goes in the caliper, the hose in one of the female
fittings, and a plug in the other. That makes a nice 90* fitting. Copper
sealing washers (sold where the T is found) will likely be needed. I
used one washer under one of the fittings, two under the other to get
the fittings turned the right way and still tight and leak proof. No
leaks after four years. A third alternative is to buy 71-74 AMC disc
brake hoses. These have a 2-3" metal line near the caliper that can be
bent to clear the spindle, just be careful not to crimp the line when
bending. The reason for all these hose gyrations is that the steering
knuckle is shaped so that it interferes with the hose coming straight
out of the caliper. The 71-74 (maybe 75 -- K-H brakes) hoses use the
metal end to get around redesigning the steering knuckle. Around 75-76
the knuckle was redesigned. 66-70 hoses might be what I'm thinking about
though -- I believe they have a metal end also. Hopefully someone can
confirm which years used the 2-3" metal end -- I don't have access ot
any reference meterial. 

You can swap calipers from in front of the wheel to behind the wheel
also. As John stated, as long as the bleeder is on top it doesn't
matter. Just swap the mounts and calipers from side to side. You may
have to trim the dust cover for clearance. Concord brakes are usually
mounted to the rear, but I had to mount them to the front in my 63
American for clearance. Drove that car 8-10 years with the brakes
mounted that way! 
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