Replacing fuel pickups - questions

[CaptainYARRR]

Hey all,

I am replacing the fuel pickups on my boat. The pickups are 1/2 and I need to step down to a 3/8 barb fitting. I can't find an aluminum 1/2 NPT to 3/8 hose fitting to save my life. Any suggestions?

Should I use thread sealant when I do find a fitting? On both the fitting and the pickup threads to the tank?

Looks like silicone is used to seal around the pickup to tank. Anything special or just any silicone?

Thanks!

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... Use a 1/2" to 3/8" brass bushin' to get to the anti-siphon valve/ hose barb,....

 

[CaptainYARRR]

There currently is an aluminum one on there, I'd like to replace it with aluminum so I'm not inviting corrosion with dissimilar metals. But finding one has been tricky.

 

[wahlejim]

You can find any size aluminum fitting you need on amazon. There are even aluminum marine fuel fittings sold by fuel tank manufacturers that you can buy.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Brass and aluminum is a non issue...

I would not use silicone but rather i would use a cork gasket.

 

[Bondo]

Should I use thread sealant when I do find a fitting? On both the fitting and the pickup threads to the tank?

Looks like silicone is used to seal around the pickup to tank. Anything special or just any silicone?

Ayuh,.... I use Quicksilver Perfect Seal, or Form-a-gasket #3,.....