so I got everything on without much trouble EXCEPT for the axle housing line.
When putting that line on, the connection to the passenger side hard line went fairly well, tightening the nut was a little hard. The problem became the driver's side. I couldn't get the nut to grip the threads much at all. I was doing this laying on my back in my driveway, which didn't help, and I hadn't yet disconnected the hard-line altogether as of yet to make it easier. eventually, I did disconnect the hard line so I could move it easier, still no dice. so I took it and tried to thread it into the old hose fitting. it was a little difficult but went in. because it was a little difficult, I attributed the difficulty with the new one to it just being difficult.
I was worried about cross-threading, but I lined it up straight and went for it. I immediately thought I cross-threaded it but at that point, it's ruined anyway, so I went all the way. at one point it was very difficult to turn the nut at all, and the brake line still wasn't fully seated. eventually, I cranked it down tight and the hard-line wasn't budging.
after I bled both sides, I had my wife pump the brakes, engine running (and engine off if that even matters) while I checked the connection (and all the other connections) and I didn't see any leaks. drove it a bit and didn't notice any problems.
for the moment, I will just keep an eye on the fluid level and check the fitting for any signs of leaking, but I'm like 98% sure the threads are ruined.
in my head I just want to buy a new axle hose and the rear hard lines and replace it all, BUT, if it's not leaking, is there any reason to replace these things now? I realize it's the braking system.