Classic/Antique Car Repair: Mid Frame to Rear Brake Line 1956 Thunderbird, double flaring tool, double flare

Question
I am replacing the brake lines and have a pre-formed steel line from CASCO--how do I get the line through the frame opening without bending the pre-formed line?  I had to cut the old line out.  The body is still on the car.

Thanks!

Answer
The short answer is, you don't. The brake and fuel lines are installed at the factory before the body is lowered onto the frame. So it easy for them to install the preformed lines. What I have been known to do is to lay the new line under the car in about the same path that it will be installed in. Then pick a place or two along the length of the line where it will pass through a body or frame opening and be hidden once installed. Cut the new line at that point with a pipe cutter, not a hacksaw. Deburr the ends of the line and purchase a couple of the proper size flare nuts and a flare coupler. Slide the flare nuts over the pipe ends and DOUBLE flare the ends of the tubing. If you do not have a double flaring tool check your local tool rental store or take the pipe to your local garage. It is worth the couple of bucks he will charge. Install the lines attaching each end loosely in position. Now install the coupler and snug up the flare nuts. You now have a neat and tidy installation. Complete the installation, bleed the system, and away we go. Make sure that you double flare the tubing and do not under any circumstances use a single flare or compression fittings.