Anyone who owns a vehicle knows that things in the innards can go wrong. There may be issues with fluids and gases not flowing in the right direction. A simple yet useful tool like a brake line bender can make such complaints disappear.
A brake line bender is not much to look at and is like a pair of pliers. However, the function of this tool cannot be underestimated. Especially for automotive engineers, mechanics, and even DIYers.
Getting the best brake line bender is the dream of any car mechanic. This device enables a pipe to be bent at a certain angle or create joints without causing any damage. Bending a pipe is not as easy as it sounds and therefore, a professional bender is essential.
With various types of brake line benders available for different purposes, how do you choose the right one?
The following guide will tell you exactly what to look for and the top products you can get in the market. Without further ado, read on to find out more!
TOP 5 Selection For A Quick Decision
Top 10 Best Brake Line Bender In 2020
1. ABN Brass 3200 Brake Line Forming Bending Tool
This durable and multi-functional bender is made from forged steel, the toughest material that such products can be made from. No wonder it lasts for a very long time.
Thanks to its rubber grip handle, it’s easy and comfortable to use on 3/16-inch and ¼-inch brake lines, air conditioning lines, and fuel lines. For a secure hold when you do a bending job, you can depend on it. You can work for long hours with this product without feeling any fatigue in your hands.
When you invest in this, you’re getting a multipurpose tool in the bargain. Use this without a worry to bend, adjust, or align brake and fuel lines without causing any damage. You can also change hard lines or bend existing lines to suit your needs.
Trusted for its superb performance, this device is suitable for both DIYers and professional mechanics.
Often, we end up distorting a pipe or tube while trying to bend it. But no chance of doing so with this bender. Its strong jaws allow you to do a thoroughly professional job without any distortion.
For reaching tight spots in your vehicle to bend or adjust the brake line, use this with complete ease and confidence and you won’t be disappointed.
However, you may want to practice with this tool first before attempting to do the final job.
Beware of the marks that may be left on the line. Some users have claimed that this is due to the jaws that are not properly aligned.
Highlighted Features:
- Made from forged steel for durability.
- Rubber grip handles for comfortable use and secure grip.
- Suitable for 3/16-inch and ¼-inch brake lines.
- Bend, adjust, or align with no distortion.
- Reaches tight spots to bend or adjust a brake line.
2. OTC 6515 3-in-1 Heavy Duty Tubing Bender
This is a lightweight and sleek tube bender to take care of all your brake line tweaking needs. It’s flexible to work with as it can make 180-degree bends, a feat not all bending tools can perform.
If you’re concerned about the materials it can easily perform bending operations on, worry no more! You can use it comfortably on tubing made from copper, aluminum, steel, and brass. Now isn’t that something!
With just this single device, you can work on three different radius sizes – ¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch. Therefore, you have more options and don’t need to buy a separate bender.
Moreover, its sturdy build makes it last longer so that you don’t need to buy other benders once you have this. It’s advised to practice working with it first to get the hang of it. This will prevent any disappointment in the future.
The long handles of this brake line bender make it easy to perform any adjustment jobs on pipes and tubes. You can get a proper hold on the tool.
Users have recommended not to attempt making a 90-degree bend at one go. It’s better to make small bends that gradually lead up to the 90-degree mark.
As it’s multifunctional in nature, you can also use it on other devices, for example, a pressure tester for watches and refrigerator lines.
Its versatility allows the user to work seamlessly on difficult angles and bends. You’ll be surprised to see the neater and tighter bends.
This high-quality bender can make any bending job a piece of cake. Without any hitches, you can connect the front of your vehicle to your gas tank.
Highlighted Features:
- Lightweight and sleek for portability.
- Can make bends at 180-degree angles.
- Suitable for copper, aluminum, steel, and brass tubing.
- Works on radius sizes – ¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch.
- Sturdy body for durability.
- Multifunctional with long handles for convenience.
3. Imperial Tool 370FH Triple Header Tube Bender
This bender has been made to serve electrical, industrial, automotive, and tube bending purposes. Since it’s made from die-cast aluminum, it weighs light and has a great portability feature. It can be easily stored in your vehicle to be of use when you need it the most.
Given its flexibility, you can work on four different sizes of radius – 3/16-inch, ¼-inch, 3/8-inch, and ½-inch. What’s more, it can make smooth and secure bends at a 180-degree angle.
With this device, you can say goodbye to your bending worries. It enables you to make perfect left-hand, right-hand, and offset bends, thanks to the calibrated marks.
Thus, this product gives you more accuracy and comfort when you’re bending any pipe or tube.
In addition, the hook is adjustable and makes you chore even easier and comfortable on your hands.
Speaking of which, the grips of the bender have been specially made to cushion your hands. Thus, you won’t get any fatigue even if you work for long hours.
Imperial Tool is the best brake line bender if you don’t want to see any marks on stainless steel lines. As far as durability is concerned, this heavy-duty bender won’t let you down so easily.
It will last for several years and you can do many different bending chores besides using it on your automobiles.
Highlighted Features:
- Made from die-cast aluminum, lightweight, portable.
- Works on four different sizes of the radius.
- Makes smooth bends at 180-degree angles.
- Calibrations for ease and accuracy of bends.
- Comfortable cushion grips for working long hours.
4. Gino Development 02-0202 TruePower Brake Line Forming Tool
For tubing without kinking and bending, this is an excellent bender for any type of line. Suitable for 3/16-inch and ¼-inch radius of fuel and brake lines, you can use this tool for custom-fit jobs too.
Bend, adjust, or align brake lines with this sturdy product made from forged steel. This not only does its basic job well but is also long-lasting. No need to buy other benders when you have this in your tool kit.
The length of 9 inches gives it an edge over its competitors. With this length and comfortable vinyl grip handles, you can reach tight and difficult spots with ease. The results are excellent every time, even where complex shapes are involved.
Unlike other benders where the jaws don’t align perfectly, this tool has no such issues. Therefore, with precision and deftness, you can complete any bending job with no hassle. The jaws are shaped in a way that doesn’t distort the tube.
With this bender, you can save a lot of time as these make bending easier, even the most difficult ones. Users who had used other devices changed their approach after trying out this product.
Some have claimed that they have been saved much aggravation, thanks to this tool.
Since the handles are covered with vinyl, even after extended use, you won’t notice any material chipping off them. The vinyl helps to maintain the bender in good condition with the black coating intact.
Either bend new lines or re-bend existing ones with this brake line bender to get satisfying outcomes all the time.
However, it’s advised to practice with this in scrap material first to ensure you are good to go on the final project.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for 3/16-inch and ¼-inch radius.
- Made from forged steel for durability.
- Vinyl-covered grip handles for comfort.
- Length of 9 inches to reach complex spots.
- Aligned jaws to prevent distortion.
5. Eastwood 49074 Brake Line Forming Tool
Simply twist your wrist to get a smooth bend on the toughest lines with this bender. Use it on any pipe with a radius of either 3/16-9nch or ¼-inch size. Perfect for adjusting, aligning, and bending, you won’t be disappointed with this tool.
Formation of new bends or re-shaping current ones is a matter of minutes if you have this product in your toolkit.
Hard to reach places as end fitting will no longer pose a problem for you. Its length of 9 inches lends to its superb functionality and ease of use.
The jaws of this brake line bender are shaped so that there’s no distortion when you apply pressure on the pipe. Experience zero fatigue and calluses on your hands as this one comes with vinyl grip handles for the ultimate comfort.
Hence, you won’t feel anything even if you work for hours on end.
Forging compound curves is an easy task if you have this device by your side. Without the fear of any kinking on the tube, you can accomplish the most difficult bending chores.
Thus, you won’t end up with tubes directing fluid or gas flow in the wrong direction. Hence, it prevents any accident or damage.
You can make 90-degree bends comfortably without distorting the brake line.
It’s a great tool to possess by both professionals and amateurs who like to tinker with their automobiles. Making accurate U shapes on any line or tube made of any material is now a child’s play with this device.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for 3/16-9nch or ¼-inch radius.
- 9 inches long for reaching difficult spaces.
- Shaped jaws to prevent distortion.
- Vinyl grip handles for comfort.
- Makes 90-degree bends without any hassle.
6. ION TOOL 3-in-1 Tubing Bender
A notch above others, this brake line bender has been engineered to work on materials like brass, copper, aluminum, and steel tubes with thin walls. It’s made from aluminum alloy to ensure that it’s durable and doesn’t buckle under pressure.
You can use this product to bend any type of tubing from a 0 to 180-degree angle. It fits a radius size of either 1/4-inch, 5/16-inch, or 3/8-inch with ease so that you can have secure and smooth results.
Its multifunctional quality endears it to both professionals and DIYers. This tool can be used on a host of projects including cooling systems, plumbing, refrigeration systems, and of course, automotive brake lines.
The anti-slip handles allowing working comfortably for long hours. It also allows hassle-free reading of gauge. Since it doesn’t weigh heavy, you can store it anywhere and keep it handy for emergencies.
Users have employed this bender to give a factory look to their motorbikes by bending the lines.
Thus, you are certain to get professional outcomes with this product. It’s even been a great help in metalsmithing and for art projects. Who would have thought!
If you want to get a bending job without any kind of distortion, you can give this bender a try. Its shaped jaws are well aligned and will not leave creases on the tube you’re working on.
You end up with neat and tight bends whenever you use it. As with other benders, it’s wise to practice with this one too before you start on your main project.
Highlighted Features:
- Works on brass, copper, aluminum, and steel tubes with thin walls.
- Made from aluminum alloy for durability.
- Goes from 0 to 180-degree bends on radius size ¼-, 5/16-, or 3/8-inch.
- Anti-slip handle for comfort and long hours usage.
- Shaped jaws leave no distortion on lines.
7. Imperial Tool 470FH Triple Head Tube Bender
By the looks of it, you’ll know that this bender won’t let you down when you’re bent on getting perfect bends on any pipe or tube. It’s made from die-cast aluminum to make it last a lifetime. Its lightweight makes it to handy and portable, easy to store in your vehicle or garage.
With the triple head feature, the bender does a fantastic job on four radius sizes – 3/16-inch, ¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8 -inch. The most notable part of this product is that its lever is a quick-action one that breaks the action into two stages.
So, when you reach the mid-way, the lever repositions itself to result in better control and smoother operation.
Moreover, there’s no chance of the handles crossing each other when you’re at the thick of it. Hence, making 180-degree bends becomes a stress-free job.
The adjustable handles are not only great for making perfect 90-degree or 180-degree bends but are also comfortable.
The handle grips have been cushioned to help you to have a steadier hold on the tool. The overall design is compact, allowing you easy storage and use.
It’s advised to select only OD dimensions when working with this product as it doesn’t work on an ID or nominal tubing sizes. Another feature that makes it the best brake line bender is that it doesn’t leave any mark or crease on the line.
Users have mentioned that the bending action is rendered smooth, solid, and accurate because of the specially designed handles. So, there’s absolutely no reason to be stuck with your fixed-handle bender when you can avail of this.
Highlighted Features:
- Adjustable handles for accurate, smooth, and solid grip and action.
- Made from die-cast aluminum for a long-lasting experience.
- Lightweight and portable, easy to store.
- A triple-head feature that works on four radius sizes.
- Quick-action lever for a smoother operation.
8. Abn Brake Line Tubing Forming Bending Bender
Now you can bend without breaking or denting with this amazing bender for brake lines. It can work on brass, aluminum, copper and other metal tubing with thin walls. And that too without leaving any crease or damage. Adjust, align, and bend at 90- or 180-degree angles with no problem.
With a design incorporating three channels, this product operates smoothly on three standard-size radius – ¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch tubing.
Made from sheet metal, the bender will make great curves every time and will last a long time even with extended periods of use.
No matter on what kind of project you’re going to use this device on, it will save you from any guesswork. That’s because its calibrated markings render making angles and bends a carefully measured operation.
This device is very simple to use. All you need to do is align the metal on the bender according to the marks on the handle to choose the angle you want. Voila! The rest will be done smoothly by your trusted tool.
Since the bender has been made from aluminum alloy and a machine that guarantees precision, you won’t regret investing in it. It’s sturdy and durable, providing accuracy of bends and angles.
The grip handles have been designed to give you all the comfort and none of the tension. Your hands won’t get tired from long hours of working with this bender.
Both professionals and amateurs can work with equal ease with this product. It’s better to practice on a scrap piece of metal with the tool before getting on to the big job.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for lines made from copper, brass, aluminum and thin-walled steel.
- Makes great 90-degree or 180-degree bends with ease.
- Meant for tubing size of ¼-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch.
- Made from aluminum alloy for durability and strength.
- Comfortable grip handles for comfort.
9. Lisle 44150 3/16″ Brake Line Bender
A simple, straightforward tool meant to bend tubing of size 3/16-inch. Without flattening or forming creases on your brake line, use this bender to do a smooth job for you.
It’s capable of reaching tight spots and making the perfect bend. The head of the bender has a unique design, in that it can bend the tube without collapsing it.
Steel tubes are a bit tricky to work with usually but with this device, it won’t be any trouble at all. The handles of the bender have been designed to leave a gap of 3 and ¼-inch in between. This helps to keep a firm hold even while working on steel pipes.
A simple and compact design, it’s easily portable. Keep it handy in your vehicle so that you can reach for it in times of need. The bender doesn’t leave any marks or distortion on the line or tube.
For beginners, this is a good choice to get used to bending. Professionals can also use it with ease and no complaints. Because of its small size, it makes the ease of use even greater.
There have been some issues regarding the handles. Users have maintained that these are slick and too hard.
And when you’re working on your automobile, any oil from the vehicle may make the handles slippery and hard to get a good grip on.
Users have praised the product for being making tight bends. However, they have also mentioned that they needed to smooth out the edges as the result was not up to the mark.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable only for a 3/16-inch radius size.
- Unique head design that bends without collapsing the tube.
- A gap of 3 and a quarter inches between the handles for leverage.
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
- Capable of making tight bends.
10. ARES 70240-3-in-1 Tubing Bender
This product is a heavy-duty bender like no other. It works on three different radius sizes of 1/4-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch. Versatile in nature, it’s the go-to device for any job that requires metal bending.
Work with great accuracy by using this bender as it’s marked with a gauge. So, no more worries about making perfect angles from 0 to 180 degrees. You can do away with any sort of guesswork when you work with this brake line bender.
In addition, this product will do its work perfectly without causing the tubing to collapse. If you’re wondering about the line materials it can work on, rest assured that it does a great job on steel, brass, copper, and aluminum tubing.
The handle of the bender is unique. The knurled design makes it great for a secure and firm gripping. On top, there’s no chance of it slipping from your hands.
Plus, even if you work for long hours, your hands won’t get tired as these handles give you the maximum comfort.
Besides working on automobiles, you can also fix the fuel lines at your home using this device. Make sure you have the proper leverage when using it in order to get the finest outcome.
Some users have advised bending the line a little more to allow room for snapping back after you have performed the operation. Also, it’s good to test it out on scrap material before using it on the final or main job.
This bender is sure to give you professional results. Suitable for both beginners and seasoned mechanics and engineers, you won’t go wrong when you choose this bender.
Highlighted Features:
- Heavy-duty bender for three different radius sizes.
- Marked gauge gives greater accuracy and ease of use.
- Makes angles from 0 to 180 degrees with precision.
- Suitable for steel, brass, copper, and aluminum tubing.
- Anti-slip, knurled handles for better grip and comfort.
What To Look For Before Buying A Brake Line Bender
Before you purchase a brake line bender, there are a few factors you need to consider. You need to decide first what you want to use it for.
As mentioned earlier, this tool is used for various purposes and hence, there are different types of these. The following are the factors to help you buy the right one.
Type
Once you know what you need the brake line bender for, choose from the variety of these products available. The various types include mandrel benders, ram style benders, rotary draw benders, and roll benders. Each one is meant for a specific purpose and will, therefore, give you a different result.
A roll bender has three rollers and is used to shape a metal bar into a circular form. For shaping pipes or tubes, a mandrel bender is used to prevent any collapse during the process.
For structural tubes and exhaust pipes, a ram style bender is used to create a tight radius and then pushed into a bending die.
Die sets with a constant central line radius are used in a rotary draw bender for jobs that require different degrees of bending.
Material Strength And Capability
It’s important to check the strength of the brake line bender and if it can be applied to various radius sizes. There are some benders that can bend more than just one size of a pipe. If you work with various sizes, then this could work well for you.
As for the material of the bender, make sure it can handle the material of the pipe it’s supposed to bend. Otherwise, you would waste your money.
Precision, Speed, Repeatability
Speed is an important part of bending tubes and pipes. Along with speed, the precision of the brake line bender will determine how well suited it is for your purpose.
For example, if you’re working in an automobile workshop, you will need to work on various brake lines. Such work requires that you have a bender that gives you the speed and accuracy to do your job well.
Although air benders are faster than manual ones, they are behind the electric ones when it comes to speed. Although the manual benders are a cheaper alternative, the number of times they can be used depends on how well they have been maintained by the user.
Durability
Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, it’s vital to invest in a brake line bender that will last for a long time. And, one you can use it for other purposes too. If the tool you choose is made from drop forged solid steel, then you have a winner.
Any strong material used to make a bender is likely to last long. Moreover, the user should also handle it well to make it durable.
Grip Handle Type
Since your hands will come in direct contact with the handle of the bender, you should look for one that will provide you the greatest comfort. You don’t want to end up with calluses on your hands after working all day with a bender.
It’s recommended to choose one with rubber grip handles. Such handles are easy on the hands, giving you comfort and saving you from any pain.
Brake Line Material
If you are thinking about bending a brake line, you should know the material of the brake line itself. Not all benders are meant to bend all types of materials. Any brake line bender can either bend lighter materials or very strong ones, but not both.
Check the pipe or tube for its thickness, size, diameter and the material used to make it. After checking these factors carefully, choose a bender that has the strength to bend it. Pick a bender that’s versatile and can bend various types of materials with ease.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Brake Line Benders?
You’ve probably realized by now how essential a brake line bender can be for both professional mechanics and engineers as well as DIYers. You might be still wondering whether you really need one or not. To dispel your doubts, read on to find out about the benefits of using a brake line bender.
Cost-Saving
With a brake line bender that you can use yourself to fix any tube issues, you don’t need to call in a professional mechanic. Hence, you save some costs. On top, you can use this bender for other purposes around the yard or home.
Moreover, there are some jobs you can do with a bender without incurring the costs of welding.
Professional Results
Instead of using an ordinary bender, a good quality brake line bender can give you professional results. On top, using such a device will prevent any accidents or damages.
It will ensure that you have addressed your vehicle issues properly. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that fluids and gases are flowing the right way. Moreover, it’s convenient to use this device exactly for the purpose you have in mind.
Consistent Quality
A brake line bender will give you consistent results as it’s capable of making highly precise bends that are also of good quality. No other tool can work better to give you more accurate bends than a bender for brake lines. Whatever the specs, this tool is sure to give you the same results each time.
Safety
As with any other tool, you might want to be assured of safety when using a bender for your tube. It’s 100% safe to use, both for the user and for the brake lines in your automobile.
These benders are manufactured specifically for bending brake lines. Hence, they are guaranteed to give you and the brake lines total safety.
Ease Of Use
Brake line benders are easy to use and cause zero damage to the pipes and tubes you are meant to bend. These tools can squeeze through narrow spaces and give you the precise angle of a bend you are looking for. With rubber grip handles, bending pipes is no longer a tedious chore for you.
Since you can use benders to work on lines made from different materials, they give you more reasons to buy and use them. What’s more, along with ease, you save time on any bending job as you can bend it like Beckham!
Multipurpose Functions
Once you invest in a bender for brake lines, you can not only use this for this purpose but for others as well.
A good brand of bender will work with equal poise and ease on other tubes and pipes around the house. Hence, this gives you good value for money as you can use it for many bending tasks.
Portability
Because of the convenient size, you can easily carry a bender for brake pipes anywhere, any time. The best thing is that you can keep it in your vehicle as it won’t take up much space.
In addition, their lightweight makes them super portable. You can reach out to it whenever you need to fix a tube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Final Words
Sometimes we take risks when we need to bend a brake line to a specific angle. Such risks are unnecessary and uncalled for. A simple tool like a brake line bender is all it takes to give you the perfect bend without bending over backward.
As you have seen, there are a lot of benefits that this device can afford you. Besides saving costs and giving you professional results, these give you the satisfaction and peace of mind.
They are safe to use and yields professional results. Their multipurpose feature also makes them a great tool to have.
Before you invest in one, do go through the section on the factors to consider so that you end up with the best brake line bender.
This guide has been put together after carefully weighing out the top brands on the block. We hope you make an educated decision and enjoy shopping for the right one.
