Fuel tank install questions

[Fishermark]

I am working on a project boat - a 19' SeaRay with a Mercruiser I/O. Here's the boat:

I am getting ready to install the fuel tank. It apparently originally came with a bow tank, but had no tank at all when we bought it. I ordered this one as a replacement:

Here's the bow where the tank is going and a close up of the original fuel line and vent:

Now I have a few questions...

1. I notice that the original fuel line going from the tank back to the engine is copper. Is that "normal?" I know in automobiles copper is a no-no due to the fact that repeated flexing can harden the copper and make it more prone to cracking, and therefore leaking. Always a bad thing on a boat!

2. Is it wise / legal / advisable to use a short section of rubber fuel line to connect the tank to the metal fuel line? (Using coast guard approved fittings, fuel line and double clamps of course). Again, I would be concerned about connecting the metal line directly to the tank - but maybe my fears are unfounded.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Fuel tank install questions

You'll be just fine with the copper tubing. You can use a short length of USCG approved hose running to the engine from a bulkhead or something closer but that is about it. The only thing you can really replace it with is stainless steel. I'd sooner believe the auto industry replaced copper with steel due to cost more than anything else, unless your referring to the frame to fuel pump connection.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Fuel tank install questions

I'm not considering replacing the copper tubing, I was just wondering if it is best to use a length of rubber hose from the tank to the copper tube.

 

[JCF350]

Re: Fuel tank install questions

No, those lines last longer than the boat does normally.

It's the rubber vent and fill hose that your going to have deal with periodically. Best to change them out now regardless of condition.