Brake Pipe and Hose Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 GMC Sierra, 2009 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2009 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning .

CAUTION: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Caution .

Visually inspect all of the brake pipes for the following conditions:
- Kinks, improper routing, missing or damaged retainers
- Leaking fittings, excessive corrosion
If any of the brake pipes exhibited any of the conditions listed, then the identified pipe, or pipes, require replacement.
Ensure that the vehicle axles are properly supported at ride height in order to maintain the proper relationship of the flexible brake hoses to the chassis.

Fig 1: Identifying Flexible Brake Hose Failure Conditions

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Visually inspect all of the flexible brake hoses for the following conditions:
- Kinks (1), improper routing, twists, chafing, missing or damaged retainers
- Leaking connections, cracking, dry-rot, blisters, bulges
If any of the flexible brake hoses exhibited any of the conditions listed, then the identified flexible brake hose, or hoses require replacement.
Squeeze the flexible brake hoses with firm finger pressure to check for soft spots (2), indicating an internal restriction. Check the entire length of each flexible brake hose.
If any of the flexible brake hoses were found to have soft spots (2), then the identified flexible brake hose, or hoses require replacement.