Metallic fuel line...?

[Jayrock]

I ran across an interesting idea the other day. Just wondering why it is not implemented in recreational boats. On my work boat we are REQUIRED by the Coast Guard to use metallic line versus hose ( of any kind ) for runs longer than 30". We use 1/2" copper tubing for all our fuel feed, vent and return lines, albeit diesel. On cars I know steel lines are used because copper cannot withstand the vibration and will crack easily. Why is copper or steel fuel line not used in recreational boats? Better fuel flow, no kinks, no junk to break down from ethanol, and probably a few more advantages that I can not think of. Maybe Because of cost and difficulty to install? I can't imagine there would be a safety issue if the Coast Guard mandates this on Commercial Passenger Vessels. Please , for those of you that know, let me have the reason it is not a good idea. I am thinking real hard at replacing all my rubber hose with copper tubing. I just did it on my work boat, and it was very easy. Thanks guys

 

[Jayrock]

Re: Metallic fuel line...?

Really? Nobody knows? Hmmm... I will wait a lil longer...

 

[F_R]

Re: Metallic fuel line...?

Often one part must be able to move in relation to another part, due to rubber mounts. One such place is the fuel connector and fuel pump.

I dunno, antique outboards had copper fuel lines, and in my humble opinion they were more or less a PITA. I'll keep my hoses, thank you.

 

[arks]

Re: Metallic fuel line...?

My 27 year-old Silverton has rigid gas lines from the tanks to the crossover valves to the filters and right into the carbs. Not positive but I think they're 3/8" copper.
As far as I know it's all original. I check the fittings every spring and they all seem A-OK.

 

[Jayrock]

Re: Metallic fuel line...?

Im not goin to put rigid line on my outboard lol. Just in the hull from the tank to the fuel water sep. And possibly anywhere else from there that can be accessed easily. Thanks. Im going to do it.