Flaring tools are a pretty important feature for your car. If you like to maintain it yourself, you would know how troublesome it could be to find the best brake line flaring tool for your car. This comprehensive brake flaring tool review will help you to do that without any trouble!
There are several tool kits out there in the market. After carefully analyzing their features, price, and overall performance, we have come up with this guideline for your convenience. This includes a list of 10 best brake line flaring tool kit, buying guide, some common queries, etc. to help you for easy selection.
All these flaring kits are by far the best handheld brake pipe flaring tool kit available in the market. However, if I have to pick one from the list, I will choose the MASTERCOOL 72475-PRC Blue. For me, it is of great price value with some fantastic features. Worth spending my money!
Let’s start with the 10 best brake line flaring tools review for you. Shall we?
Table of Contents
10 Best Brake Line Flaring Tools Review
1. MASTERCOOL PRC Blue Flaring Tool Set
There are many flaring tools available in the market. But MASTERCOOL has been continuously manufacturing the best double flare tools among all other brands. The MASTERCOOL 72475-PRC Blue and Silver Flaring Tool Set is no different. It deserves to be called the best brake line double flaring tool because of the significant features and advantages it offers.
Features:
- Package includes: This package comes with 3 Push Connect, GM Fuel Line Flare, transmission, brake lines, flare or double Flare, Metric Bubble Flare, A customized plastic box to keep the equipment in.
- Die set area: this kit has an enlarged increased die set compression zone for an improved performance. It ensures the better holding of dies while using it.
- Tube and die set: There is a tube and die stabilizing arm set in the kit. It will help you to form the tube without any trouble.
- Magnetic Adapter holder: Due to the magnetic adapter holder, the adapter doesn’t change its place easily. You can use it without any worry.
- Annealed Steel and Dead Soft: this kit is suitable for annealed steel and dead soft usage. It can easily create flares on soft aluminum, copper tubing, and annealed steel tubing.
- Tube cutter: It has a Mastercool mini tube cutter for 5/8 inch to 1/8 inch. This tube cutter comes handy in many situations.
Pros
- A high-quality product, no leak is to be found.
- The enlarged die set gives a better hold.
- Good to use for both bubble and double flaring.
- This can make flares within two minutes.
- The tube cutter is of very good quality.
Cons
- Extra adaptors can’t be fitted in the case.
- Not a good choice for push connections.
2. Brake Line Flaring Tool From TGR (Professional Grade)
The Brake Line Flaring Tool from TGR gives you the professional feel even when you are an amateur! With the multiple tubing sizes, you can create different types of flares immediately. It is the perfect tool to use for brake lines, fuel lines, or transmission cooler lines. The price may seem a bit high for some people, but the features it brings with it are worth the money!
Features:
- Package includes: This package includes dies with 4 different types of tubing size. You can choose any of the two different sets of 45 degrees and 37 degrees.
- Three types of flare: With the multiple sized tubes and dies, you can create three types of flares like single, double, and the bubble flare with ease. This feature certainly makes it one of the best double flare tools in the market.
- Easy to handle: This tool is fairly easy to operate. No extra fixing is needed, you can just take it out and use it instantly whenever you need it.
- T-handle: The T-handle clamp will safely hold the die and tube. You can work without any worry while using it.
- Vise mount compatible: This tool can be used on vise to your comfort. The product is flexible, just mount it on the vise and it is ready to use!
- Steel and Soft metal: You can use this tool on stainless steel, regular steel, and soft metal tubing as well.
Pros
- Easy to use for beginners.
- You can make three different types of flare with this.
- It has a sample flare for a prior test.
- The T-handle lets you screw the die and tubes effortlessly.
- Different sizes of tubing with dies are present.
Cons
- You have to clean it frequently.
- Short sized tubing can not be used properly.
3. RIDGID 83037 Flaring Tool
In this list, RIDGID 83037 Flaring Tool has taken the third position for its stunning flaring capabilities. It can be used to flare on several types of tubing which is quite extraordinary. This tool will help you to work with ease, without creating any pressure on your hand. The design, the efficiency, smooth flare, etc. has made this tool one of the most wanted ones in the market.
Features:
- The kit: This flaring tool comes with a ratcheting handle and steel flaring cone. The small device design is easy to move and use both anytime you want it.
- 45-degree flare: This flaring tool can produce 45-degree SAE flares in both 1/8 and ¾ inch.
- Easy operation: This kit is pretty handy for all types of users. Using this tool is a pretty easy process to follow, even for a beginner. The automatic release of the handle clutch gives a proper finishing to the flare.
- Ergonomic handle: The energy-efficient handle is specially designed to reduce any extra pressure from your wrist. Especially when you are working in a small area.
- Steel flaring cone: The flaring cone is made of hard steel with an easy mount system, increasing the strength of the kit.
- Steel, hard copper, and soft metal: You can use this to flare steel, stainless steel, hard copper, and brass tubing via a wall with a 0.035-inch thickness.
Pros
- Very easy steps to use.
- Smart shape and lightweight.
- The handle needs minimal energy to be used.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- The tough steel flaring cone can be mounted flexibly.
Cons
- You have to clean it frequently.
- You have to be careful to avoid losing it.
4. Shankly Flaring Tool Set
If you are a professional, you will need a flaring set that contains every necessary instrument for brake flaring. Shankly has made such one for you. This Shankly Flaring Tool Set is something every professional would love to have. It is easy to carry and includes everything needed for handling a heavy-duty brake flaring work.
Features:
- A complete kit: This all-inclusive kit has specialized tubing cutters for the professional’s better work experience. All ten pieces of tools can be found in one place, so you won’t have to look for them while working.
- Multi-range adapters: The flaring tool adapters come in different sizes like 16 mm, 14mm, 12mm, 10mm, 8mm, 6mm, and 5mm. A must-have flare kit for any professionals out there.
- Common Swage Fittings: It has five swage fittings with 7 tube sizes, making it a durable swaging set of tools.
- Self-centering yoke: There are 2 bars which are covering 9 different sizes and a self-centering steel yoke to create professional-grade swages and flares. The yoke bars can be adjusted to create the desired sized flare rapidly.
- Multi-use: It can be used to flare brake line, copper line, copper pipe, etc.
- Easily movable: This tool is perfect for traveling, be that short time or a long time. You will find everything in one single case without any difficulties.
Pros
- Usual swage fixture with a self-centering yoke.
- Easily transportable.
- This comprehensive kit is ideal for experts.
- It has several sizes of flare adaptors and tubes.
- The tough steel flaring cone can be mounted flexibly.
Cons
- This does not produce a double flare.
- No instruction manual is included.
5. International Brake Line Flaring Tool from K Tool
Looking for the best flaring tool for stainless steel brake lines? Then the K Tool Brake Line Flaring Tool is what you are looking for. This is the best product for producing several types of quality flares on stainless steel.
Features:
- Diameter lines: it comes with 4 sizes of diameter lines to be used for various works like plumbing, fuel line, etc.
- 45-degree kit: This kit comes with a flaring tool and handle, four sized tubes and dies, a case, and an instruction manual.
- Turret-style design: This tool kit is designed in a tower shape, which gives it an elegant and stylish outlook.
- Vise mount compatible: This can work efficiently if mounted in a vise properly. You can get great results by mounting the toll while working.
- Versatility: You can use this flaring tool to create a quick single, double as well as bubble flares. This can be used on stainless steel, OE steel, and soft metal tubing as well.
- T-handle: It has a T-handle bolt to hold the line in position when flaring the brake. It ensures safety as well as the precise outcome of the work.
- User friendly: Using this tool is not a difficult job to do. You can make quick flares with it. Still, it comes with an instruction manual to assist you if needed.
Pros
- Durable and stable performance.
- The clamp system works great to hold its place.
- Several ranging tube backups.
- The dies are perfect fit without altering the pipe size.
- Every piece of the tool is precisely labeled.
Cons
- The line needs to be adjusted before using the tool.
- No instruction manual is included.
6. Yellow Jacket Flaring Tool
We have seen many stainless steel flaring kits in this best brake line flaring tool, and you must want the best flaring tool for copper also. The Yellow Jacket Flaring Tool is the perfect lightweight flaring tool for you. It has been one of the old manufactured tools which are still admired by the customers since 2010. The design is compact and easily carried while traveling.
Features:
- 45-degree tool: This kit comes with a fool range of 1/8 to ¾ inch O.D flaring tool and handle tubes and die, and an instruction manual.
- Automatic Tube Height: There is an automatic tube height gauge to ensure proper tubing height while flaring. It will help to fit the tubing properly.
- Self-Centering Yoke: the self-centering yoke will make perfect 45-degree without changing the tube structure.
- Multi-face Cone: This tool has a multi-face burnish cone that creates a polished and perfect flare.
- Flexible: You can use this flare kit to create quick flares used on copper, brass, and aluminum tubing as well.
- Easy use: This flaring tool saves a lot of time and energy for you. You can carry it easily while traveling. The tool is very easy to operate with the basic four steps.
- Origin: This is from the United States with a design based on the R-410A system requirements. It has an integrated height stop that assists you to meet larger R-410A flaring conditions.
Pros
- This product is very lightweight, hence easily movable.
- It is a consistent performer.
- Using this tool is easy.
- It makes a perfect flare.
- The self-centering yoke grip doesn’t alter the tube.
Cons
- Because of its small size, it could be lost easily.
- It comes without a case.
7. OTC Master Brake Flaring Tool Kit
OTC is a common name in producing service tools for professionals. They have manufactured the OTC Master Brake Flaring Tool Kit for everyone, which is handy when you are doing some simple home projects. This product is lightweight and comes with a sturdy casing. This package comes with various equipment to make your flaring experience an easier one.
Features:
- 45-degree flaring tool kit: This kit comes with a flaring bar, adapters, arbor press, tube cutter, debarring tool, and a hard box to keep all in.
- Different types of flares: It can create single, double, and bubble type flares with ease. You can use it for any DIY project without any professional help.
- Flexibility: You can use it to flare steel, copper-nickel brake lines.
- Easy to use: The package is an all-inclusive one. You can find every necessary tool for flaring work. Everything is easy to attach following some simple techniques.
- Portable: This product is only 4 pounds, making it super easy to carry around whenever you need it. While traveling, you can fit it in your suitcase and take it with you.
Pros
- It comes with a durable case.
- Makes several types of perfectly clean flare.
- You can cut squares with the tube cutters.
- It makes a fine thread.
- This tool is lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons
- It makes a clean flare on the brake line.
- The debarring tool sometimes leaves marks on the nickel and copper lines.
8. Cal-Van Tools Master Inline Flaring Kit
The Cal-Von Tools Master Inline Flaring kit is a good choice if you are looking for a professional tool kit. You can create both double and single flares with this flaring tool. The design is simple and made of tough material. You can use it in your car or any tight space with restricted movement. This time-saving tool is very convenient for professional use.
Features:
- The Package: This brake line flaring tool comes with 3/16 inch, 1/4 inch, 5/16 inch, and 3/8 inch double and single flares. They are modeled to decrease the tube slip up from the clamp.
- Compact Design: The tool is lightweight and easy to carry. You can easily use this tool to flare copper or soft steel tubes in a congested place. The double clamp and hex body prevents the tube from sliding while holding the flare in the center.
- Flaring Adapters: The flaring adapters are made to lock the cone and tube together. Thus, no breakage will occur while you are using the flaring tool.
- Tubing Kit: The tube might slip when the clamp and screws apply direct pressure on it. The tool decreases the chance of any slip up during the work.
- Sturdy Material: This flaring tool is made of some quality materials making it long-lasting. You can use it on heavy-duty sites for a long period.
Pros
- The strong clamp grip prevents any tube slip up.
- Makes various types of flares perfectly.
- You can use it in tight and jammed spaces easily.
- Saves a lot of time.
- This tool is lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons
- The threading of the bolt may seem tight.
- It may have trouble flaring stainless steel.
9. 37 Degree Flaring Tool for Stainless Steel Line
We have found some of the best 45 degrees flaring tools in this ‘Best brake flaring tool review’ list. If you have been waiting for a 37-degree flaring tool, then your wait is finally over! This 37-degree tool from Speedway motors is the best 37 degree flaring tool to date. You can use this to flare on stainless steel, copper, brass, aluminum, etc. This lightweight product can create the perfect flare you are looking for.
Features:
- 37 Degree Tool: This brake flaring tool creates the perfect 37-degree flares. It includes the flaring tool, a ratcheting screw, a flaring cone, etc.
- Ratcheting feed screw: It comes with a special intensifying feed screw with a solid flaring cone, which is supported by the needle-shaped bearing. It helps to create the perfect flare.
- Simple Design: This product is designed to make your work easier. You don’t have to put much strength to use this. It will create leakage-free flares within no time, just like an expert.
- Multipurpose use: This tool can flare steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, and aluminum tubing with a wall width of .035 inches. It makes even flare without any difficulties.
- Tubing size: You can use this for various tubing sizes like 3/16″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″ and 3/4″ exterior diameter.
Pros
- This creates perfect 37-degree flares.
- It is best for flaring stainless steel.
- The product is compact sized and easily movable.
- Energy-efficient and time-saving tool.
- The best 37-degree flaring tool in the market.
Cons
- A bit costly compared to others.
- Doesn’t come with a tube cutter.
10. ABN Bubble Flare & Double Flaring Tool Kit
The ABN Company is a known name for making quality tools for a long time. This ABN Bubble Flare and Double Flaring Tool Kit is also one of their best products. The price is very reasonable regarding the excellent features it provides. This is an assorted case of multiple flaring tools that are durable and portable. With this, you can quickly create both bubbles and double flare.
Features:
- The package: This kit comes with hard clamps, 10 tubing sizes, flare tool adapter dies, yoke reamer, tube cutter, a strong case, etc.
- Yoke and cone: There is a yoke styled compressor with a T-bar handle, cones to hold the flare position, tubing of different sizes, adapter, etc.
- Versatile: you can create both double and bubble flares on bending brake and fuel line material, braking pipe repairs, lines, gas, water, water, refrigeration, etc.
- Clean cuts: There is a small pipe cutter that can cut steel, aluminum, copper tubing, etc. The two rollers stop the tool from jerking and sliding.
- Durability: The wheel is made with chrome-plated alloy steel which decreases any contact. The yoke is made of heated steel which increases the power and life span of the tool.
- Storage Capacity: It comes in a plastic blow-modeled portable casing with clasps and handles. You can carry it and store it easily. All things are in one place, so you won’t find difficulties while doing the work.
Pros
- A quality tool for the value.
- Comes with a durable yoke.
- This tool can create both double and single flare.
- Can be used on different materials.
- Various sized tubes can be flared.
Cons
- Not suitable to create flare on copper.
- Sometimes hard to create double flare due to the press body.
How To Buy The Best Brake Line Flaring Tool?
Brake lines flaring tool is quite necessary for automobile maintenance. Although your brake line is already flared when you buy it from the shop, there is a chance of modifying it to adjust with the tubing size. Hence, a good flaring tool is always handy in such an emergency.
But before purchasing one for yourself, you need to seek some basic features. Or else, you would end up buying something not suitable for you. You don’t want to waste your money like that! Below we have assorted some features for you to consider before buying a brake flare tool.
Check each of these features before choosing any brake line flaring tool. Trust me, it will save you hundreds of dollars!
Flaring tool type:
Flaring tools can be of various types. There are single flare, double flare, bubble flare, etc. For most domestic purposes and vehicles, using bubble and double flaring kits are common. You must decide which type of flaring kit you need. If you want to make bubble flare, go for the bubble flaring kit.
And if you want to make double flares, the double flaring kit will be the best option. Of course, you could make a bubble flare using a double flaring kit. The result would be similar if not the same.
So, before even buying the flaring tool, you’ll have to know what type of flaring you need.
Leak safe:
The main job of brake line flaring is to ensure your brake line is free of any type of leakage. Because if it does, then the whole thing will become meaningless! Leakage can create major functional problems and cause accidents as well.
So, check the materials the brake line is made of. See if they have good quality and durability for long term use. Also, the sizes of your tools should complement the brake line for a better flaring experience. A mismatched combination is the first step for the leaking issue. It can also lead to further severe accidents.
Price:
Cost is one of the most important aspects in terms of buying a flaring tool. Many of us might have a tight budget, and you will definitely find some kit suited to your budget. For example, a single flare tool is more reasonable than a bubble or double flaring tool types. But it doesn’t mean it will deliver the best outcome for you.
The best quality definitely comes with a specific price. If you want to do a double flare using a cheap single flaring tool, this might not be a good idea. For intense work, you have to spend a bit higher for the perfect equipment. It won’t be wise to compromise with your tool quality due to the price.
Good things don’t come cheap. So, if your budget is short, wait for a few days until you are ready to buy a decent flaring tool.
Competency
When you are thinking about purchasing a flaring tool, the kit should be able to fulfill your requirements. It should be efficient enough so that you can apply it without any trouble. Go through the flaring tool features to see if it offers what you need. The tools have to be fit for your vehicle perfectly.
Once you find something suitable for you, cross-check with the dimensions of the tool components and your brake lines. It will help you to gain the best result possible. The tool’s purpose is to make your work easier, not the other way around.
Transferable:
You need a flaring tool to easily carry around with yourself. Whether you are a pro or an amateur, you never know when you might need to use it. The compact size will help you to fit in anywhere in your vehicle. You can also take it anywhere long distance
Also, buy a toolkit that comes with a sturdy case. That way you can take all the important tools from minor to major in one go. It will save your time from searching for things from different places while you are working.
Durability:
You need a tool that will serve you for a long time. Why spending bucks on something that won’t last? Before buying, you should check the material record a manufacturer uses to make such flaring tools. This will ensure the longevity of the product.
Some tools may look flashy enough to convince you to make the purchase, but the elements are the most important. Your product doesn’t have to be too big to prove its sustainability. It could be lightweight, with a long life span due to the quality materials it consists of.
Adapters:
Most flaring tool kits include adapters for attaching the piping sections conveniently. If your tool doesn’t have one, you can always buy it separately. But that means, there is a chance of that one not being fit with your flaring tool. Hence, it is best to buy something that already has its own adapter.
How to Use the Brake Flaring Tool?
Flaring tools for brake lines are mandatory for vehicle owners. It’s not always possible to visit a motor service each time you need some brake line flaring. Learning the process can be proven helpful if any urgent situation occurs. Once you know how to do it, you don’t need an expert for changing a transmission cooling line or making some simple flares on brake lines. This tools also help to change brake pads.
Most of the brake flaring tool kit comes with a manual instruction guide. If you know the basics, it won’t be a problem for you to follow the instructions accordingly. Moreover, your brake flaring tool is efficient enough to give a professional finish to your job.
Preparations:
You need to make some arrangements before starting the process. Make sure to get some brake fluid for your vehicle. You have to separate the pipe joint a day before the process. Don’t forget to check twice if all the tools in your kit are ready for work. Don’t throw out the brake lines after the flaring process is done.
You can use them later for measuring the next one for change. You will need the flaring tool, tube cutter, and fluid for the brake. Having the right tools while working is something you must not forget. And always be careful when handling such tools. Follow proper precautions to save yourself from any unexpected accident.
Steps of Flaring Brake Line:
- Take out the tube cutter and cut the tubing as per your need. If you find any scald on the new tube’s edge, don’t use it. Place the newly cut tube in the entrance of the tubing clamp.
- Position your adapter on top of the edge of the prominent tube. The width of the tubing must match with the adapter’s wider side or it will cause problems. Now tighten up the wing nuts.
- Flip the adapter and apply some brake fluid on it, later keep it inside the tube. Place the flaring tool into the tubing clasp. Tighten the screw. Stop it when you can see the base of the adapter out of the clamp.
- After the work is done, untie the screw and move the adapter from the clamp. You will see a bubble look at the tube edge. Now take the flaring device and position it to the center by moving in the tube end.
- Now again move the screw clockwise to take out the cone. This means the screw is tight enough.
- Remove the flaring tool and observe the tube end to see anything unusual. If you see no breach or rift in the flaring, your work is done. Now remove the tubing from the clamp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do you need to flare brake lines?
Brake line flaring is done to ensure that the edge of the brake lines is leakage proof. If the tubing is narrow, the connection won’t slip deep enough and chances of the leak will increase. Flaring the brake line will make the tubing broader. It also makes the vehicle more secure!
Brake lines bought from automobile shops are already flared for the user’s convenience. But there is a chance that you would need a different length. And if you do, you would have to flare the brake lines as per your need.
Q. What is the best material for brake lines?
There are various types of brake lines available like steel, soft steel, stainless steel, and copper-nickel alloy. All of them have their advantages and shortcomings. However, copper-nickel alloys are the most popular among them.
They are easy to install and resistant to rust and corrosion. You can easily bend them and flare them. Their strength and resilience make them more durable than other materials. The only issue is they are not puncture-proof like steel brake lines.
Q. How many types of brake line flare are there?
There are several types of flare available for brake lines. The 45-degree double flare, bubble flare, ISO bubble flare, 37-degree single flare, etc. Single flares are usually not recommended for flaring brake lines as they tend to break easily.
Both bubble and the 45-degree double flare are used for domestic and automobile brake lines. But the latter one is the best for maximum brake line flaring. It is commonly used for high-pressure circuits like brake and clutch systems of the vehicles.
Q. What are the most commonly used brake lines for automobiles?
They are both similar in traits, but the double flare is more powerful managing the high pressure of a brake system. Single flare could be leaked easily, hence the double flare is advised to brake line flaring. They are most common in the 80’s USA made vehicles.
For vehicles, it is suggested to use the double flare on the brake lines for the best outcome. The endpoint of the line is shaped twice while bending over the single flare’s lip. The double flare is an enhanced version of a single flare.
Q. Can I make a bubble flare with a double flare kit?
Yes. You can use a double flare kit for creating a double flare. Most double flaring kits are an all-inclusive one. You can make different types of flares like a single, bubble, double flares, etc. with it. The process of making a double flare starts with a bubble flare.
To get the perfect bubble flare, you should use the proper bubble flare kit if you have one. Or buy one if possible. However, if you don’t have the kit then the double flare kit is a good alternative to finish the job. It will produce kind of the same results.
Q. How can I bubble flare a brake line?
Take your bubble flaring kit. It will have the necessary tools like adapters, yoke, flare bar, pipe cutter, etc. Adjust the tubing size in the pipe cutter. Keep turning around the knob until the tubing is cut down perfectly.
Connect the brake line fixture with the flaring bar properly. Make sure to tighten up the bar to stop any tube movement. Then join the flaring button and the tubing’s opening in a flat-out manner. A bend could result in crooked bubble flare causing the brake line to leak.
Make the flaring button tighter without putting any extra pressure. Once it looks perfect, do not press it. Take away both the flaring yoke and the button. After opening the flaring bar, you will get the bubble flare you have been working for.
Q. What brake line size is the most common to use?
The brake system of an automobile usually contains the 3/16 inch tubing. While the ¼ inch tubing is included in some vital parts like the master cylinder, the ABS pump, etc. It is better to use the same size brake lines for both front and rear brakes.
Brake line sizes are variable. You must know the size because the tools to be used for flaring will depend on the sizes of the brake lines. Most typical ones are 3/16 inch and ¼ inch. These are commonly found in vehicles like cars and lorry.
Q. Can I ride my car with a leaking brake line?
If your car has a leaking brake line, it is better to avoid using the car. Leaked brake lines mean the fluid will flow out from the master cylinder. And the air will replace the empty space of the circuit. It will result in a brake failure. At one point your master cylinder will be fully drained out and will stop working. So there is a chance of you getting stuck in the middle of a road.
Final Verdict
Using the best brake line flaring tool is very important for your automobile maintenance. The perfect tool can make your experience with your vehicle much more enjoyable and long-lasting. And you deserve nothing but the best for your safety and convenience as well.
The buying guide along with these brake pipe flaring tool reviews will help you to find the perfect one for you. Thank you for staying with us till the end. Check us out again if you want to read more buying guides like this one.
Last update on 2024-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API