Technical Fuel line help please!

[cazman13]

Hello All,

I have a 1980 Spider that was leaking fuel and finally pin pointed it. It is the metal line that runs inside the car next to the drivers seat. I am not the best at this stuff. I would think I could just cut out the section and replace it with a section of rubber fuel line? I would need to cover it up I'm sure so it doesn't get stepped on and such. But if I buy rubber hose and use hose clamps will that work? I know it is not the best fix, but for now I would hope it will work.

Thank for the advice!

 

[F123C]

Ideally you should fit a complete new fuel line, for safety reasons. I don't think I've ever seen an original fuel line with junctions inside any car.

Having said that, it's a biggish job to fit a one piece fuel ine into a car, ideally done when the engine and interior trim is out.

What you suggest will likely work fine but I'd urge you to use the best materials/techniques available. Maybe ask at an Auto Factors or similar for advice. There might e.g. be available compression type fittings suitable for use with fuel so you could repair the pipe or let in a new section of metal pipe (tube).

I've seen metal fuel pipes repaired by soldering/brazing/sleeving but all these methods require heat. Some might suggest using epoxy resin or similar but I'd don't know.

Best not to take any chances where fuel is concerned. If your car is fitted with an electric fuel pump (I think it is) then the line will be under pressure any time the engine is running.

Also, if any fuel has soaked into the soundproofing mat under the carpet, then this should be removed.

Have you gotten a fire extinguisher yet? As I said previously, it's a good idea to have one in an old car.

Al.

 

[cazman13]

Ideally you should fit a complete new fuel line, for safety reasons. I don't think I've ever seen an original fuel line with junctions inside any car.

Having said that, it's a biggish job to fit a one piece fuel ine into a car, ideally done when the engine and interior trim is out.

What you suggest will likely work fine but I'd urge you to use the best materials/techniques available. Maybe ask at an Auto Factors or similar for advice. There might e.g. be available compression type fittings suitable for use with fuel so you could repair the pipe or let in a new section of metal pipe (tube).

I've seen metal fuel pipes repaired by soldering/brazing/sleeving but all these methods require heat. Some might suggest using epoxy resin or similar but I'd don't know.

Best not to take any chances where fuel is concerned. If your car is fitted with an electric fuel pump (I think it is) then the line will be under pressure any time the engine is running.

Also, if any fuel has soaked into the soundproofing mat under the carpet, then this should be removed.

Have you gotten a fire extinguisher yet? As I said previously, it's a good idea to have one in an old car.

Al.

Thanks! I took the old metal lines out and replaced them with new metal lines and replaced the rubber lines on the end at the same time. No more leak. Now to get rid of the fuel smell.

 

[F123C]

Thanks! I took the old metal lines out and replaced them with new metal lines and replaced the rubber lines on the end at the same time. No more leak. Now to get rid of the fuel smell.

Excellent!

Maybe you won't need the fire extinguisher after all!

The sound deadener mats can hold the smell of fuel even after drying.

Also, the bitumen/tar sound deadener coating stuck to the floor sections can hold fuel residue underneath and therefore the smell of fuel for some considerable time. Try pressing on it to check for soft spots.

Al.

 

[cazman13]

Thanks Al for all the info!