Can I replace the hard fuel line on my 3.0 block with AN fittings and braided hose?

[insttech1]

The previous owner chewed up the brass nut going into the carb...that means replacing the entire hard fuel line.
I now have to use a pipe wrench to get it off in order to pull the fuel line from the carb for maintenance.:facepalm:

I'd like to replace the fittings on the fuel pump and carb, and use stainless or kevlar braided hose, and some AN6 fittings.

I think that would make life easier to pull the carb, replace the fuel filter, etc....in the future.

The motor is out and in the garage right now....so good time to do it in early spring before re-install.

Are there any safety related reasons to not do this? It seems at least on the automotive side, this is what many of the high-performance guys do to plumb their fuel to single or dual carbs, or those having dual fuel inlets. And possibly put an inline fuel filter in there while I'm at it, and eliminate the porous version in the carb itself.

I can get all the fittings and hose for roughly the same price as the new VP hard line.

Of course I will fab' something up and mount/route it in a manner so it doesn't vibrate/chafe against anything.

Thanks for your thoughts!!

 

[insttech1]

Re: Can I replace the hard fuel line on my 3.0 block with AN fittings and braided hos

No thoughts on this from anyone?

Hope everyone is enjoying the holidays

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Can I replace the hard fuel line on my 3.0 block with AN fittings and braided hos

Here are my thoughts, and remember they are worth exactly what you are paying for them.

1) I have no idea if it is legal to do it from a USCG or insurance stand point.
2) I would think as long as you use crimped on fittings and some sort of metal covered hose you would be okay.
3) Do NOT use push lock fittings, even with hose clamps on them.
4) Other than that, I can not see why you can't use them.

Make the hose just like you want it, then take it to a hydraulic hose making place and have them make a crimped on one to match.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Can I replace the hard fuel line on my 3.0 block with AN fittings and braided hos

You can also go to Napa or another parts store and get a new piece of metal line and make a new one that is all steel. Auto Zone will loan you a double flare tool to finish the job.

 

[insttech1]

Re: Can I replace the hard fuel line on my 3.0 block with AN fittings and braided hos

Thanks for the input, I do appreciate it.

By "push lock" fittings, are you referring to the AN style threaded hose fittings, (which you have to screw together, one insert in the hose, the outer sleeve around the hose, and then tightened by special wrench), or those goofy "quick disconnect" quarter-turn things, which is not what I'm looking to do.

The napa thing isn't a bad idea either.

I just find it funny that the factory setup is just 5/16 rubber hose hanging in mid-air from the fuel tank to the pump, held on with a hose clamp, and then hard line out the other side of the pump, and routed in a really crappy way to get the line/carb off.

Thanks again!