Has anyone had any luck making the flares on the front brake lines? Is there a special tool, or do you just use a double flare tool without making the double flare?

 

You should be able to make the flare successfully. It is a double flare but not compressed back on itself. Also, you must use the correct union nut. The british are different from american ones. The american ones will not seal even the proper flare.

https://www.bmc.on.ca/storeFront/store/index.asp

 

YES, THERE IS A PROPER TOOL.....Matco makes a good one, but if it's not worth the money....it may be cheaper to buy the lines you neeed.

 

You may be able to get the proper tool from any Mini supplier
minimania.com, MiniCityLTD.com, djminis.com, BMC.on.ca or 7ent.com