When you experience hitches with your car, you will discover that more needs to be done besides the usual maintenance. Granted, most of its components are serviceable, but you have to do more when it comes to the brake lines.
Now, you can either choose to spend handsomely on pre-bent lines or save some coins by making your own. If you prefer the latter, you will need the best brake line flaring tool.
This guide is about helping you find the perfect brake line flaring tool so it will be in your best interest to keep reading.
Things to Consider When Buying a Brake Line Flaring Tool
Is it Leak-Proof?
Your brake line flaring tool of choice should be leakproof. It is as simple as that. If yours leaks, then it will be useless.
This has a lot to do with the material used in the construction of the tool. That then means that you should get one made from resilient fittings that will not corrode or leak.
Tool Compatibility and Efficiency
The tool you buy should meet your needs otherwise you will have wasted your money. That means that it should be efficient and ideal for in-car applications.
You want to ensure that the one you pick is compatible with your car and particularly your brake parts. Double flaring tools make the process of fitting pipes simple and efficient. Flaring tools have three main components including a metal bar, crew, and metal piece.
An efficient flaring tool should form tight fittings so be sure to look out for that while shopping.
Flaring Tool Adapters
A brake flaring kit will come with adapters that work to help you piece the complex sections of your piping. As such, it will be wise to purchase the adapters with the flaring tool instead of separately.
This will reduce the chances of you purchasing the wrong adapters that may be incompatible with your flaring tool.
Price Point
As you shop, you will realize that single-flaring tools are cheaper compared to kits. Nevertheless, you want to invest in a durable kit if you will be doing a lot of heavy-duty applications.
Regardless of how much you want to save, try not to compromise on the quality because you will spend more in the long run.
Detailed Look at The Best Brake Line Flaring Tools
Now that you know how to go about picking the perfect brake line flaring tool, we think that it would only be right for us to introduce you to some best-selling options.
1. OTC 6502 Brake Flaring Tool Kit
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: Taiwan
Adapters: 10 pc
Weight: 0.078 ounces
From the OTC stable, we have this kit that we have to say stands out from the rest. We can assure you that it will make your job repairing your brake lines seamless.
If you are looking for the best bubble flare tool, you have to consider this one. The kit includes other tools such as tube cutters and adapters that will aid in delivering perfect repairs.
What we liked About It
Since this is a kit, it comes with several components and that is a great thing but it may be a bit hard to organize them and keep them together in one place. To take care of that, the manufacturer included a storage case and we think that is ingenious.
That also means that it is portable so if you need to carry it with you to help a friend with their repairs, it will be the perfect companion. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this product is not designed for daily use and we feel that the manufacturer should have used material that is more durable in its construction.
Pros:
- Offers value for money
- Comes with a storage case
- Ideal for DIY projects
Cons:
- Only for occasional use
2. OTC 4503 Double Flaring Tool Kit
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: Taiwan
Adapters: 5 pc
Weight: 0.041 ounces
If you are in the market for a single or double flare in aluminum or copper brake lines, this would be the perfect flaring tool.
It comes with five adapters to make your repairs effortless and fast. You may also want to note that its chrome swivel is designed to reduce friction.
What we liked About It
With this double flaring kit, you will be able to do both single and double cutting. Its yoke and swivel are first-rate quality seeing as they are made from heat-treated steel to guarantee durability.
As if that is not enough, this kit does come with a great fit and excellent finishing. We love that the manufacturer included a storage case for storage and easy transportation.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this product’s kept line slipping down while flaring making the user experience quite hard and undesirable. We feel that the manufacturer should have focused on making it user-friendly.
Pros:
- Built for durability
- Reasonably priced
- Reduces friction for an even flare
Cons:
- Not for beginners
3. Neiko 20657A Auto Tool Kit
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: China
Adapters: 4 pc
Weight: 2.3 Pounds
When you think of versatility, this unit from Neiko certainly crosses the mind because it features a whopping nine pieces. That makes it ideal for metric soft steel brake pipes that require bubble-style flare.
Now, this kit is quite basic but that doesn’t mean that it is not worth it. It is user-friendly and hence can be operated without mechanical help. It can be used both professionally and domestically.
What we Liked About It
If you are looking for a brake line flaring tool kit that can be carried around, this has to be it. We say that simply because it comes with a case.
It is also suitable for beginners because it is extremely easy to use. Another thing we liked about it is that it comes with a clamp that grips the brake line beautifully to keep the tool intact for accurate flares.
What Could Have Been Better
As reported by some users, the instructions that come with this unit are quite vague which may affect the user experience and we feel that the manufacturer could have done a better job with that.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Comes with a carrying case
- Easy to use
Cons
- The user instructions could be clearer
4. MASTERCOOL 72475-PRC Universal Flaring Tool Set
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: USA
Adapters: 14 pc
Weight: 11.83 pounds
One of the first things we noticed about this unit is that it is feature-rich. It is adjustable and it is no wonder then that it has a huge fanbase.
The set is universal and can be used on both soft and annealed steel. The manufacturer also includes a mini cutter in the package which only means that your repairs will be more precise. Moreover, the apparatus comes with several adjustable stages that are easy and simple.
What We Liked About It
Whether you intend to use this unit for professional or personal use, you will be pleased to learn that the manufacturer had you in mind when constructing it because it is so easy to use. It is made from premium material as well which will certainly stand the test of time.
Another great thing about it is that it comes with a magnetic adapter that you can use to stay in the right position as you do your repairs. It will only take you a few minutes to do your flares and you can be assured there will be no leaks.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that their packages arrived scratched. We feel that this has to do with the packaging and shipping and we feel that the manufacturer should have packaged the product better.
Pros:
- Built for resilience
- Comes with an adapter to keep adapters in place
- Easy to organize
Cons:
- Packaging could be better
5. Neiko 20656A Tubing Tool Kit
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: China
Adapters: 5 pc
Weight: 2.35 pounds
Neiko seems to be a force to reckon with when it comes to brake line flaring tools because this is yet another unit from the stable.
The brand is known for producing functional and high-quality tools but the best part is that they offer them at a reasonable price. This one is no exception.
What We Liked About It
We would say that this kit is ideal for anyone who wants a double or single flaring tool. You can use it on different materials including aluminum, brass, magnesium, and soft steel.
The kit is also designed from resilient steel and is therefore perfect for heavy-duty materials. To cap that, the kit can be used in applications that cause friction because it features an alloy steel build and chrome-plated steel.
What we loved most about it, however, is that it comes with a hard plastic case that makes storage and transportation easier.
What Could Have Been Better
As per some users, this unit broke after a while of using it meaning that it is not as resilient. We feel that the manufacturer should have made it with durability in mind.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners
- Portable
- Chrome plated to reduce friction
Cons:
- Not as durable
6. Shankly Flaring Tool Set
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: USA
Adapters: 7 pc
Weight: 5.35 pounds
It may interest you to know that this unit from Shankly is rated as one of the most accurate ones when it comes to flaring tools. It has a sturdy build and is convertible as well. Both the tool’s swaging adapters and its flaring cone are made from resilient steel.
Besides, the adapters come with a chrome finish that makes them easy to use. The entire kit features useful components that will ensure you do not keep running to the store.
What We Liked About It
Looking at this product, it comes with several adapters that will come in handy whenever you are handling repairs. They range from 5mm-16mm. Also in the mix are two bars that you can use to cover up to nine sizes. All these will make your automotive repairs a breeze.
Also worthy of note is the fact that the unit has a steel self-centering yoke to give the kit a professional feel and durability.
The set is multipurpose as well and can be used as a brake line flaring tool as well as a copper pipe. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that the finishing of this tool is cheap and not designed for professional use. We feel that the manufacturer could have done a better job with the finishing.
Pros:
- Easy to operate
- Comes with a broad range of adapters
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- The finishing could be better
7. Shankly 9 Piece Flare Tool
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: USA
Adapters: 6 pc
Weight: 3.80 pounds
Shankly seems to be another brand that delivers quality and functionality because this is yet another product from the stable.
This kit is all-inclusive and by that, we mean that you get different components that will help make your repairs easier. The set features a broad range of adapters in different sizes that you should find extremely useful.
What We Liked About It
Whether you are a professional or DIYer, this flaring tool set contains all the tools you may ever need for your repairs.
Moving away from that, the tools are made of steel. What does that tell you? Simply that they are durable and reliable.
However, what we loved most about the unit is that it is versatile and precise seeing as it can be used for different applications and provide great accuracy.
What Could Have Been Better
Judging from reviews, some users received packages with missing parts. We feel that the manufacturer should have checked to confirm that the kits were complete before releasing them to the market.
Pros:
- All-inclusive set
- Wide range of flare adapters
- Chrome finish for easy operation
Cons:
- Some parts were missing from the package
8. MASTERCOOL 70058
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: USA
Adapters: 6 pc
Weight: 3.36 pounds
This flaring tool comprises a durable aluminum build to provide you with all the resilience and strength required for your repairs.
It is also lightweight and that translates to portability. What you will appreciate most is that the tool will deliver perfect and smooth 45˚ flares each time.
What We Liked About It
In this Mastercool 70058 kit, you will find a plastic box, a cutter, and a deburring tool. It comes with an automatic toque release as well for perfect flares every time.
The deburring tool in the set is perfect for making both NG and propane flares and can also be used for your HVAC system making it quite versatile.
What we loved most about the product is that it is among the most reasonably priced on our list even with all its features. That means you get value for your money.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, the product on the product description is not the same as what they received. We feel that the manufacturer should have updated the product description to avoid customer mistrust.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Automatic torque release for a perfect flare
- Comes in a kit to give you value for money
Cons:
- The product description needs updating
9. Titan 51535 Double Flaring Tool
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: China
Adapters: 1 pc
Weight: 14.20 ounces
Are you looking for a flaring tool with a compact design to allow for flaring in tight and intricate spaces? This has to be it! With this unit, you don’t have to go through the hassle of removing your car’s brake line because it allows for repairs to take place with the line intact.
Do not even get us started on the fact that the handle is removable. That means that you can detach it to use in a bench vise.
What We Liked About It
This brake line flaring tool from Titan is indispensable as far as repairing vehicle brake lines. It features a user-friendly design and comes with comprehensive instructions to help you achieve unmatchable double flares.
Its compact design also allows for portability making it the perfect companion for your outdoor activities.
We love that the kit contains useful stuff such as a die lubricant and a positioning bolt both of which you will need for your repair jobs.
What Could Have Been Better
This flaring tool will only work when there is a lot of lubricants involved as reported by some users. The manufacturer should have corrected that at the construction stage.
Pros:
- Compact design
- Features a removable handle
- Suitable for tight spaces
Cons:
- Could use less lubricant
10. ABN Auto Double Flaring Tool Kit
Specs:
Country of Manufacture: USA
Adapters: 5 pc
Weight: 2.4 pounds
ABN has been manufacturing top-rated automobile products for a while now so it doesn’t come as a surprise that this flaring tool kit from the stable made it to our list.
It can be used for both single and double flares since it is made with reliable auto-line tools. According to the manufacturer, you can make perfect, non-leaking flares with this unit.
What we liked About It
Durability is one of the actors that make a good flaring tool and this one offers just that. Made from heat-treated steel, you can rely on this unit to stand the test of time. It will not break or crack even under pressure, extended, or repeated use.
Moving on swiftly, its yoke is made from resilient steel to make it long-lasting and robust. The set is as lightweight as they come as well making it easy to carry around.
We love that the manufacturer included a storage case as well which makes organization and transportation easy.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have reported that this product did not come with user instructions and we feel that the manufacturer should have checked to see that everything was included in the package before launching the product.
Pros:
- Built to last
- Plastic case for easy transportation
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with user instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have some questions when it comes to the best brake line flaring tool. To that effect, we have tackled some commonly asked ones. That should give you a better insight into the same.
What is the best brake line material?
That would have to be stainless steel, especially for extreme conditions and high-performance vehicles. Although you will have to spend more on stainless steel brake lines, it is worth it.
What you need to remember though is that stainless steel will be a bit difficult to flare and bend.
Do I need to double-flare my brake lines?
Yes, you do. Double flares are essential for brake lines because of the high pressures applied to them by the hydraulic system. The only time you may opt for single flared lines is when low pressure is applied to your brake lines.
Is it possible to make my brake lines?
Yes, it is. The process is quite inexpensive and easy. It requires basic tools as well such as a double-flaring tool and a pipe cutter which you will find in your local hardware store.
As for tube nuts and brake lines, you can source them at any automotive seller. The process is quite affordable as well seeing as you can make your brake lines for as low as $50.
Our Top Pick Verdict on Flaring Tools for Brake Lines
Having assessed all the products on our list, we have settled on the OTC 6502 Brake Flaring Tool Kit as our top pick.
The kit contains a variety of tools including adapters and tube cutters to help you have an easier time with your repairs.
It is extremely easy to use making it the perfect companion for DIYers and beginners. As if that is not enough, it comes with a storage case to facilitate portability and make it easy for you to stay organized.
However, what we loved most about the unit is that it is reasonably priced even with all the functionality and features we have mentioned. That gives you value for money.
Conclusion
Sure, you may not use flaring tools every day but getting yourself the best brake line flaring tool would be a wise investment.
At some point, you will need it for your brake and fuel lines saving you trips to the garage and mechanic costs.
Now that you have this guide at your disposal, you shouldn’t have a hard time picking one, don’t you agree?
