Are you looking to improve your Ford’s launch and burnout capabilities? Installing a line lock, sometimes referred to in online searches as a “Ford Obdii Line Lock” system, is a popular modification for performance enthusiasts. While the term “obdii” might cause some confusion as line locks are primarily hydraulic and electrical systems independent of your vehicle’s OBDII diagnostics, the goal remains the same: to lock your front brakes independently of the rear. This guide will walk you through the process of installing a line lock system on your Ford vehicle, drawing upon practical experience to provide clear, step-by-step instructions.
Parts You’ll Need for Your Ford Line Lock Installation
To get started, gather the necessary components. Based on a real-world installation, here’s a comprehensive parts list to ensure you have everything on hand:
- Hurst Roll Control Kit (#530-174-5000): You’ll need two of these if you plan to lock both front brakes for optimal control. These kits are known for their reliability. Consider purchasing from online retailers like Jegs.com for potentially better pricing on multiple units.
- Additional Brake Line Fittings: The Hurst kit includes some fittings, but you’ll likely need additional adapters to connect to your Ford’s brake lines and the solenoid. It’s recommended to take a solenoid with you to an auto parts store like O’Reilly Auto Parts to find the correct adapters. You’ll need male adapters for the solenoid with a female brake line style fitting.
- Wiring Supplies: The Hurst kit includes a basic wiring kit with a fuse holder for the power line and a trigger switch. Depending on your preferred switch style and mounting location, you might want to purchase a separate switch. Ensure you have enough wire for routing from the solenoids to your chosen switch location inside the cabin.
- Brake Line Flaring Tool: If you don’t own one, you can typically rent a brake line flaring tool from auto parts stores like AutoZone. This is essential for modifying your existing brake lines to connect to the new components.
- Tube Bender: A tube bender is highly recommended for neatly bending the brake lines without kinking them, ensuring proper flow and a professional installation.
Alt text: Hurst Roll Control kit components laid out, including solenoid, wiring, and basic fittings, essential for a Ford line lock installation.
Step-by-Step Ford Line Lock Installation Guide
Follow these steps to install your line lock system effectively. Remember to always prioritize safety when working with your vehicle’s brake system.
1. Prepare Your Work Area and Gather Tools
Ensure your vehicle is safely supported, preferably on jack stands. Gather all the tools and parts listed above, including wrenches, sockets, wire strippers, and your brake line flaring tool and tube bender.
2. Mount the Line Lock Solenoids
Identify a suitable location on your Ford’s frame near the front brake calipers. The goal is to replace the existing brake line adapters with the line lock solenoids. Mounting them directly to the frame provides a stable and accessible location.
3. Modify the Brake Lines
This is a crucial step requiring precision.
- Fitting Selection: Take one of the Hurst solenoids to your local auto parts store. Find an adapter that threads into the solenoid and then another fitting that matches your Ford’s brake line style.
- Brake Line Cutting and Flaring: Carefully cut the factory brake lines in a suitable location to allow for the solenoid and fittings. Using your brake line flaring tool, flare the freshly cut ends of the brake lines. Attach the new brake fittings you selected to the flared lines.
- Connecting to Solenoids: Using the tube bender, carefully bend the existing brake lines to align with the inlet and outlet ports of the line lock solenoids. Connect the modified brake lines to the solenoids using the adapters and fittings you’ve prepared. Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
Alt text: Close-up of a brake line flaring tool being used to create a new flare on a brake line for a secure fitting during a line lock install on a Ford vehicle.
4. Wiring the Line Lock System
Wiring is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail.
- Grounding the Solenoids: Ground each solenoid to the vehicle’s frame at the mounting point or to the body. Ensure a clean and secure ground connection.
- Power Wiring: Connect the red (power) wires from both solenoids together. Route this combined wire into the cabin of your Ford. A common entry point is through the antenna wire grommet on the passenger side, behind the fender well.
- Switch Installation: Connect the solenoid power wire to one terminal of your chosen switch. Connect the other terminal of the switch to a 12V power source that is active when the key is in the “on” position. This ensures the line lock system only operates when the vehicle is running or in accessory mode.
- Optional Safety Light: You can integrate an optional safety light into the wiring circuit to indicate when the line lock is engaged.
Refer to the wiring diagram included with your Hurst Roll Control kit for detailed guidance.
5. Testing and Final Checks
- Leak Test: After completing the installation, thoroughly inspect all brake line connections for leaks. Bleed your Ford’s brake system to remove any air introduced during the process and ensure proper brake function.
- System Test: With the vehicle safely on the ground, and in a safe, controlled environment, test the line lock system. With the engine running, engage the line lock switch. Press the brake pedal and verify that only the front brakes are engaged while the rear wheels are free to rotate.
Estimated Cost and Time
The total cost for this line lock installation on your Ford can range from $230 to $240, including the Hurst Roll Control kits, additional fittings, wiring, and switches. The installation time is estimated to be around 3 to 4 hours for someone with moderate mechanical experience. The original installer in our source material spent longer due to initial indecision and experimentation, highlighting that careful planning can save considerable time.
Important Considerations
- ABS Compatibility: This installation method places the line locks after the ABS module in the brake line circuit. While this increases the component cost slightly compared to installing before the ABS, many installers prefer this approach for maintaining ABS functionality for everyday driving.
- Professional Opinion: While this guide is based on practical experience, consulting with automotive professionals, particularly those familiar with Ford ABS systems, is always recommended, especially if you have any uncertainties.
Conclusion
Installing a line lock on your Ford is a rewarding modification for performance driving, providing enhanced control for burnouts and launch techniques. By following these steps and carefully selecting the right components, you can achieve a professional and reliable installation. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the process and enjoy the enhanced control your new line lock system provides.
