Chevrolet S10 Brake Lines
Brake lines are an important piece of a Chevrolet S10s braking system and help to form part of the vital connection between the brake pedal and the brake pads on the wheels of the S10. Because they control how quickly a vehicle can come to a stop, properly working brake hoses are one of the most important safety features of a truck. To choose the right lines for your truck, you need to know how brake lines work and what types of lines are available.
How do brake lines work on the Chevy S10?Brake lines are used in Chevrolets that have a hydraulic brake system. When the brake is pushed down, a plunger is forced into a cylinder. The pressure of the plunger forces hydraulic fluid to leave the cylinder and make its way through the flexible brake lines. These lines run the length of the vehicle and are connected to each wheels brake pads. When the liquid reaches the end of the brake line, pressure causes the brake calipers to press against the brake pads, which in turn grip the wheels. This causes their rotation to slow or stop completely. As the fluid moves through brake lines, the lines expand. After the liquid returns to the cylinder, the lines shrink. It is this action over time that wears out the lines and is the reason they need to be replaced. It is especially important for heavy pickup trucks like Chevrolet S10s to have working brake hoses.
What types of brake lines are there?All brake hoses are designed for safety and longevity. Chevy S10s use braking systems that rely on one of two types of lines. Both types of brake hoses use metal fittings.
- Rubber: Brake hoses made from rubber are often used in the initial construction of a vehicle by manufacturers because of their relatively low cost. Rubber brake hoses are flexible and durable. They can last a long time before needing to be replaced.
- Stainless Steel: Brake lines made from stainless steel are usually added aftermarket. These lines are made of braided steel and do not expand as much as rubber brake hoses when activated. Because they do not expand as drastically, stainless steel brake lines provide a firm resistance when the brake pedal is pushed, allowing for accurate braking. Most stainless steel brake line kits come with a PVC or mesh cover that keeps dirt and other debris from penetrating the line.