I've done a search as I remember seeing something about this before - I can't find that post though.

Is there any advantage of 'upgrading' my brake lines to Stainless? I realise I'll get better feel over other materials etc. Do the C2S (997.2) already have SS brake lines?

Looking at these or http://www.ecstuning.com/Porsche-200...nes/ES2581672/.

 

Stock isn't ss. The main advantage is consistent feel across extended usage; i.e. At a track.

 

I've never driven a nice car with stainless lines, so it's possible that something was done poorly on the two I have driven, but I'm not a fan. They seem to reduce pedal travel making a hard, almost binary on/off pedal. I got used to them eventually, but it was similar to a poorly done sport throttle mode in that it reduced the amount feedback I got and ultimately the level of control I could exert.

I'd be curious to hear from folks that have driven properly set up cars with them if my experience was random or expected.

I looked into them on a 4x4 (protection from damage is the attraction there) a while back, and it seems that at least some of them can't be visually inspected, so they need to be periodically replaced.

 

I have stainless lines on all my performance cars (modded 914, RUF SC 997, SC 928, and 997 C2S). Aside from making for a super firm brake pedal with excellent feel, the other advantage is that they are essentially lifetime lines. Rubber lines deteriorate (harden, soften, swell internally, crack) etc and eventually need to be replaced. The biggest problem with rubber lines is when they swell internally and reduce the inside diameter of the line to the point where it takes a lot of pedal effort to move fluid through the constricted line. If some of the lines have constricted more than others, it will also effect your brake balance and bias. The good ss lines are Teflon inside and have a clear smooth coating outside so the braiding doesn't chaff anything it may come in contact with, which protects both the integrity of the line and the parts around it.

 

Check this link out. It will answer your questions:

"http://www.stoptech.com/technical-support/technical-white-papers/stainless-steel-brake-lines-q-a"

 

Read a lot of good and bad on ss lines...I think I will stay with oem, car not tracked.

 

Replacing OE brake lines with -03 PTFE hose improves brake feel over factory lines, eliminates sponginess, and provides shorter stopping distances and consistent braking in performance applications. The shorter stopping distances and improved pedal response provide safety features as well as performance advantages. Another good brand is Goodridge SS lines, which can be found here. All of their G-Stop lines go through a nine-point quality assurance testing including the materials tensile strength and 3000 psi pressure ratings. They qualify for free shipping as well. If you have any questions let me know!

 

I have Spiegler sets on both my 997s. Purchased them from Essex Auto Parts for around $150/set of 4.

 

Thanks everyone for your inputs.

 

I put the Goodridge SS lines on my 2000 C2 and was very pleased.

 

Is there DIY guide on changing out brake lines?

 

Waste of money in my opinion. Stock lines are rubber coated steel braid enforced. Even the Cup cars come with same brake lines. Cup car!!

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05' C2S 6MT

 

I didnt put them on a 911 yet, but I put them on a SL55. I bought a used SL. I was used to the feel of the brakes. I needed to change the brake fluid. So I checked the various brands. The best looking set was Goodridge (on ebay for $100) I checked the aftermarket tuners and they were selling the same Goodridge set on their brake upgrade kits. (The major brands were stop-tec and goodridge ). put them on with a fluid change. WOW what a difference in the feel of the brakes. I will put the same set on the next car with the first fluid change.

 

The internal rubber of the stock lines is part of the problem. Over time the brake fluid makes it swell, constricting the pathway through the line. The reinforcement outside of that only makes the problem worse as the rubber can only expand in.

Good stainless lines are Teflon inside, then covered in the stainless braid, then that covered with clear plastic to protect the stainless and also prevent the line from abrading anything it might contact.

There is a significant feel difference between rubber and stainless lines and they're also a one time upgrade that last the life of the car under normal use.

 

yes, you can see the teflon tube in the braid. The whole line or tube is not SS