brake line replacement

Can't help you on the brake line, other than suggesting that the shop drop the tank.

I have done a DIY replacment of the rear shocks on a '99/'00 Dodge Roadtrek. I've been an amateur wrench-twister for the past 50 years. It was not an easy job because of the the chassis modifications by RT, but was do-able. But that model year is somewhat different from yours, since Dodge did a redesign in '98. I'm not sure what changed underneath.

I suspect that you may find it easier to get both jobs done at a small RV repair shop if there's one in your area, but it'll likely be a lot of labor over and beyond doing the same job on a plain van. I'd try to stay away from big RV dealers' service departments if you can.

Jim, "Laughing stock: Cattle with a sense of humor."

I'm really not sure why the shop is complaining about removable items in the way. They should quote a reasonable amount of labor to remove and replace the stuff in the way. If you agree to the terms then they can do the job.

The brake line is likely not pinched by the tank. A method I have used is to route a new line next to the old line. I just cut out as much of the old line as is reasonable. I fold tape over the new line as I push it past tanks or other items. Then I use new commonly available universal brackets to hold the line.

I think your shop is subtlety telling you they don't want your business. Or they want to cherry pick the easiest stuff.

I suppose the brake line job may be because they have no idea what they'll get into reconnecting the water tank fill lines. IIRC, they're not visible at all. I'm pretty certain I know why they don't want the rear shock job. The RT-installed dropped floor almost traps the top mount bolt against the frame, making it just almost impossible to get the bolt out, or to reinstall the nut & washer. It's really crowded up in there.

I think someone once found & linked my old, old post about the contortions that I had to do on the shock job in the archives here, but I have no suggestions of what search terms to use. It would have been made in my first year here, if that helps any at all.

Jim, "Philosophy major: Will think for money."

Put in a new brake line. Reroute it as needed with new brackets.

If you can't remove the old brake line, cut off what you can. Won't hurt anything.

Very easy job.

adayjk wrote:
I think your shop is subtlety telling you they don't want your business. Or they want to cherry pick the easiest stuff.

yup

Thanks so much for all the great suggestions you all gave me. I think I now have a starting point for my repairs. Carmin