Should I replace steel brake/gas lines?

Posted by Gene On 2012/7/4 19:30:19

I'm to the point of installing the engine on my 39 Super 8 and decided I wanted to clean up the engine bay and get everything painted first that I've neglected to do previously. Since this car has set for almost 30 years I am thinking that I probably need to go ahead and replace the metal brake lines and gas line. I've got the three replacement rubber lines, wheel cylinder kits, and master cylinder kit already.
I'm really torn as to replacing the lines with stainless from Kanter for about $300 or going original from the local parts store. I can get the tube bending tool, flair tool, and tubing for less than $100 and have the tools for the future (always a plus). Of course it would be easier, perhaps, to just put pressure on the lines to make sure they are clear and use the current ones. But, for a little time and money I'm thinking it would be safer to go with new.

Please offer your comments and suggestions! This is my first project of a car this old and I want it to be a safe driver. It is intended as a driver and not a show car but I do not want to put disc brakes or anything to take away from originally of a classic.

Thanks in advance to anyone who responses.

Gene