Hey guys, seeking your opinions and advice.
99 F-150 X-cab 4x4.

I notice brake fluid leaking from the drivers side rear brake line (the metal one from the wheel cylinder to the junction box on the rear axle). The leak is occuring at the junction box. When the brakes are engaged the fluid shoots from the line at the box.

I go to the dealer for a replacement line. No go. Parts guy says Ford has gone to all disk brakes, they don't have these lines. He sends me to Napa, says that's where they get 'em.

Napa sells the lines, but not the correct diameter, they also don't bend the lines.
I now realize that the compression fittings on both ends are different sizes, that is, the threaded screw on the fitting at the wheel cylinder is larger diameter than the threaded end going to the junction box. All I find are brake lines with the same diameter.

I take it back to the dealer.

They call with an estimate of $892

They claim they have to replace the wheel cyliners and the line.

Final bill is 882, with $256 in parts and the rest in labor, which is about $630.

9 hours labor?

This is not right.

I paid it, but am wondering if I could have some recourse with Ford for a partial rebate?

I KNOW I've been ripped. The funny thing is I've taken it to this dealer 3x before and always been very satisfied.

Thanks all.

 

9 hours to lay a whole new brake lines for the whole truck doesnt seem unreasonable, what else did they do?

 

napa should have all that stuff. its 3/16 line. all you need is the adapter pieces. they sell fittings that step up or down that thread on the 3/16 fittings.bending the line is no problem. just dony make any sharp bends and make sure it secured and clipped in well.

 

Seems steep for some line and wheel cylinders. Seek-out a good local mechanic (NO Dealer) and start forming a relationship there.

Nope. It's well out of warranty, and this is normal wear and tear stuff.