Steel braided fuel lines are more durable than traditional fuel-injected lines, but this strength can also make installing fittings a challenge. They should be installed with care to avoid leaks and damage to the line.
Tools Needed
- SAE (O.D.) line cutters or tubing cutter
- Bench vise or vise grips
- Deburring tool
- Fuel line insertion tool or flathead screwdriver
- Hose clamps (3/8" size)
- Steel ring clamps (3/8" size)
- Fuel line fittings (straight, 45-degree and 90-degree; 3/8" size)
- Wrench
Instructions
Step 1: Cut Fuel Line to Desired Length
To ensure the fuel lines are long enough, connect them to the vehicle’s fuel inlet and fuel outlet/regulator. Add a couple inches to the measured length for wiggle room. Use the SAE line cutters or tubing cutter to cut the steel-braided fuel line straight across.
Step 2: Deburr the Ends of the Fuel Line
Use the deburring tool to carefully shave away any burrs from the inside and outside of the ends of the steel-braided fuel lines. This will prevent the fittings from scratching or cutting the walls of the fuel line or the fuel line from puncturing the end of the hose.
Step 3: Insert the Steel Ring Clamp
Slide a steel ring clamp onto one end of the steel-braided fuel line. This clamp will help to secure the fuel line to the fitting and prevent leaks.
Step 4: Insert the Fuel Line Fitting into the Fuel Line
Use the fuel line insertion tool, or a small flat head screwdriver, to spread open the end of the fuel line. Carefully insert the fitting into the fuel line until it is seated firmly against the stop.
Step 5: Tighten the Steel Ring Clamp
Slide the steel ring clamp towards the fitting and use a pair of pliers to tighten it firmly against the fuel line.
Step 6: Secure with Hose Clamps
Slide two or three hose clamps onto the other end of the steel-braided fuel line. These will help to secure the fuel line to the fitting to prevent leaks.
Step 7: Tighten the Hose Clamps
Use the wrench to tighten the hose clamps onto the fuel line. You only need to snug them up hand tight, do not overtighten them.
Tips for Working with Steel Braided Fuel Lines
- Avoid kinking or bending steel-braided fuel lines. This can damage the line and cause it to leak.
- Use a sharp cutter to cut the fuel lines. This will prevent the line from fraying.
- Deburr the ends of the steel-braided fuel lines to remove any sharp edges.
- Use the correct size fittings for the fuel line. Fittings that are too small or too large will not seal properly and can cause leaks.
- Avoid overtightening hose clamps. This can damage the fuel line.
- Never use Teflon tape on fuel lines. Teflon tape can clog the fuel lines and cause engine problems.
