A Practical Guide to Replacing 1960-1966 Studebaker Commander Brake Hoses
Keep your classic Studebaker's brakes safe and reliable by understanding when and how to replace its aging rubber brake hoses.
- Replace all three brake hoses at the same time due to their advanced age.
- Aftermarket brands like Dorman and Sunsong are often the same part, so purchase based on the best price.
- Using flare nut wrenches is essential to prevent damaging the steel brake line fittings during removal.
- After replacement, the entire brake system must be bled with fresh DOT 3 brake fluid.
Time, Not Miles: Why Your Commander's Brake Hoses Need Attention
For a classic vehicle like the 1960-1966 Studebaker Commander, brake hose replacement is a matter of age, not mileage. After six decades, the original rubber hoses are well past their service life. Over time, rubber breaks down. It can become hard and brittle, leading to cracks and leaks. Just as importantly, hoses can fail from the inside out, where the inner lining deteriorates, causing problems that aren't visible from the outside.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Hose
A bad brake hose is a critical safety issue. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should inspect your brake system immediately.
- Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: If a hose is old, it can swell under pressure instead of transferring that force to the brakes. This feels like a soft or spongy pedal.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: A hose can collapse internally, acting like a one-way valve. This can trap pressure, causing a brake to drag and the car to pull to one side while driving or braking.
- Visible Cracks or Leaks: Check your hoses for any visible cracks, swelling, or signs of brake fluid leakage. Any visible damage means the hose must be replaced.
- Brake Fluid Loss: If you are losing brake fluid but can't find a leak at the master cylinder or wheel cylinders, a failing hose could be the culprit.
Brake System Warning
A leaking brake hose can lead to a complete loss of braking ability. If you suspect a leak, do not drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hose: Dorman vs. Sunsong
For the 1960-1966 Commander, new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) hoses from Studebaker are no longer made. The market consists of aftermarket replacements. The two common brands you will find are Dorman and Sunsong.
Forum discussions among classic car owners often point out that major brands like Dorman, ACDelco, and others frequently re-box hoses made by Sunsong. Sunsong is a large, legitimate manufacturer that produces quality, DOT-compliant brake hoses. In many cases, a Dorman-boxed hose and a Sunsong-boxed hose are the exact same part, down to the markings on the hose itself. Given this, the most practical approach is to choose the brand that offers the best price and availability at the time of purchase.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
Your Commander has three brake hoses (one for each front wheel and one for the rear axle). Since all the hoses are the same age, it is critical to replace all three at the same time. This ensures the entire flexible part of your hydraulic system is new and reliable.
Typical Costs for Brake Hose Replacement
Prices can vary based on your location and chosen parts. This table provides a general estimate.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hoses (Set of 3) | $45 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $195 - $370 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special tools to replace my Commander's brake hoses?
Yes. The most important tool is a set of flare nut wrenches (also called line wrenches). These wrenches grip the fittings on the brake lines much better than a standard open-end wrench and help prevent rounding off the soft metal fittings, which is a common problem on older cars. You will also need tools to safely lift and support the vehicle, a drain pan, and a brake bleeding kit.
What other parts should I replace at the same time?
You must bleed the brakes after replacing the hoses, so you will need fresh DOT 3 brake fluid. This is also a good time to inspect the steel brake lines for rust and the wheel cylinders for leaks. If the fittings on the steel lines are seized, you may need to replace a section of the hard line as well.
Are stainless steel braided hoses a good upgrade?
Braided stainless steel hoses are available from some specialty suppliers. They can provide a firmer pedal feel because they expand less under pressure. However, for a stock 1960-1966 Commander used for normal driving, standard high-quality rubber hoses are perfectly adequate and meet all safety standards.
Were there any recalls for Studebaker Commander brake hoses?
No specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were found for brake hydraulic hoses on the 1960-1966 Studebaker Commander. Any issues today are related to the advanced age of the original components.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: Front Hose (for drum brakes): 519637 Rear Hose: 1543003
Your 1960-1966 Commander uses two front hoses and one rear center hose. The front hoses connect to the wheel cylinders on drum brake models. The rear hose connects the frame to a brass tee fitting on the rear axle housing.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.