Bending my own replacement fuel line?

[ethan169]

late 80's Merc 260 Alpha I

The flare on one end of my fuel filter/water separator to the fuel pump I believe is a little messed up from the previous owner. It seems to leak a tiny bit of fuel right when you shut the engine off. Im going to replace it since its a 45 second job. However the new line seems to be about $50 and I have to order it and pay shipping and wait etc etc etc. I want instant gratification....

Is there any reason I shouldn't bend my own line? I have a flare tool and tubing bender and cutter. The existing line looks like standard fuel or brake line to me. Just painted with a gloss black. I planned on picking up some line and two flare fittings from an auto store bending to fit then flaring the ends with the flare nuts. Then Ill hit everything but the flare nuts with some glass black enamel from a rustoleum rattle can.

I did some research and cant really find anything but this one post about someone else doing the same.

A fuel line is sealed with a flare fitting - unless you have something different. The flare is what seals the joint - not the threads. Should require NO sealant. You don't need a stainless line, a regular steel fuel / brake line will work well for many years.

For the hose, any barb fitting that is designed for rubber hose is fine.

Here's a line I bent and used on my engine:

Any objections?

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Bending my own replacement fuel line?

No reason why you can't. I ditched the hardline on my boat when I went to a 4bbl carb and now have SS-braided line with -AN fittings. As long as you are careful and make sure not to stretch the tubing too thin on the curves, you should be fine. The paint is for corrosion protection, so you can paint it whatever color suits your fancy.