Why is the brake fluid line from the reservoir to the clutch master made of metal?

[Bmachine]

Just curious about this... It looks like there is a small piece of rubber hose right on the nipple of the fluid reservoir and then a solid tube from there on. Why not continue that rubber hose and use the same type of brake hose as the one going to the brake MC? It is a simple gravity feed and there is not pressure in the line at that point and not much heat on that side of the motor...

 

[jmackro]

I would assume that steel line is cheaper than the brake fluid resistant flexible line. It also lasts longer.

 

[Bmachine]

Thanks Jay. I am asking because as I am converting mine from auto, I do not have that metal tube. I was wondering if it was ok to simply use the flexible brake hose.

 

[jmackro]

I can't see how it would do any harm. But you will spend a few bucks buying that much flexible tubing that is resistant to brake fluid.

 

[aearch]

hazardous area

 

[Peter Coomaraswamy]

Bo, I think either is OK, it's a super low pressure-gravity fed circuit . The metal line fits directly into the clutch master grommet which can be easier than poking that freggin plastic nipple in there but assuming you put in the plastic piece before attaching the cylinder to the firewall there should be no problem and you are eliminating a possible leak point (paint problem) by bypassing the metal tube/clamp.