Fuel line same as brake line?

[kaliona]

I'm replacing my fuel line on a Mercruiser L6 from the fuel pump to the carburator. I've read several posts mentioning using steel fuel lines or brake lines readily available from any auto parts store. Is there a difference between fuel and brake lines? Is one easier to bend than the other? I have a flare tool so it doesn't matter to me which one to use. Just wondering if there is a difference.

 

[ChrisCraftJohnny]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

On Auto's:

Yes, it's OK to use flared brake line for fuel systems. Some old cars (1920) used copper. And most restorers still use this to be correct.

On Boat's:

I would say NO. Unless it is Coast Guard Approved steel line. Ask your local Merc dealer. The only steel line I know of on most small craft goes from the fuel pump to the carb. And that is a CG rule. It can't be rubber or such.
I know the CG is very stern (pun intended) on what is used for fuel delvery.

Johnny

 

[kaliona]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

Coast guard regs allow the use of rubber fuel hose from the fuel pump to the carb as long as its USCG type A1 hose and as long as proper fittings and clamps are used. I'm having trouble finding the proper barbed fittings. That's why I'm going with steel line. I would think steel fuel line from an auto store would be fine as long as it's double flared at the pump and carb, and the correct swage fittings are used. I don't see what would be different between a USCG approved steel fuel line and any other "steel" fuel line.

 

[ChrisCraftJohnny]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

The "approval" That is the difference.

It will have lettering on the product if it is CG approved.

You should be fine but it will not be CG approved.

And I was always told no Rubber between the Carb and Pump at the CG safety class I took on I/O's.

But maybe this is some amendment?

Johnny

 

[Don S]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

Brake lines use the same material and same type flares as OEM fuel lines.

 

[kaliona]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

If brake line meets USCG requirements then I'll probably go that route because the lowest price I've found for a Mercruiser fuel line for my engine is $88.

Don, any thoughts on automotive "fuel line"?

 

[Don S]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

Don, any thoughts on automotive "fuel line"?

Assuming you are talking about the automotive fuel HOSE, it has no place on a boat, end of story.

 

[kaliona]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

I understand automotive fuel hose is a no-no. I'm talking about steel line, with the label specifically reading "3/8" Fuel line"

 

[Don S]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

I'm talking about steel line, with the label specifically reading "3/8" Fuel line"

Where are you reading that from?

 

[JustJason]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

steel line is steel line, doesn't matter if it's on a boat or off the master cylinder on an old camaro. It's the same stuff. Go ahead an buy a length of it, bend it up, and cut it to fit.

 

[Don S]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

I think you are trying to complicate something that is not complicated.
Fuel lines on boats are seamless steel tubing with double flares on the ends. Brake lines are the same material, and same type fittings.
They are also readily available and all you have to do is bend to shape, cut to length and double flare one end and the flare nut is already there for you to reuse.

EDIT: Jason beat me to the explanation.

 

[kaliona]

Re: Fuel line same as brake line?

It was on the adhesive label with manufacturers name and bar code. Just a straight piece of 40" long fuel line with both ends double flared.