Mercedes Mullins
Rubber hoses are flexible and can be used for several hydraulic line repair jobs. They can also be used for repairing fuel lines. However, there are several risks associated with using rubber hoses for fuel lines. For instance, rubber hoses start degrading as soon as they come in contact with fuel. They can also cause leakage and leave rubber residual that will damage the fuel line. Standard rubber hoses should never be used for fuel lines. However, you can use rubber such as EPDM or NBR for fuel line repair.
Can fuel lines to carbs on outboard be rubber hose?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of installation | Rubber hoses are easy to install and can be connected using standard barbed fittings and fuel line hose clamps. |
| Durability | Rubber hoses are susceptible to degradation, cuts, nicks, and other abrasions. They may also experience leakage and leave rubber residual that can damage the fuel line. |
| Permeability | High-quality rubber hoses have sufficient permeability for fuel. |
| PSI Handling | Good quality rubber hoses can work with higher psi, with some resistant up to 90 or 100 psi. |
| SAE Grades | SAE J30R7 is carburetor-rated and suitable for limited runs up to 50 psi. SAE J30R9 is fuel injection-rated and can handle up to 100 psi. |
| Alternative Options | Nylon tubing or braided hose (rubber hose with a braided stainless or nylon exterior) are alternative options to consider. PTFE-lined hose is the best soft hose available, blocking fuel vapors and slowing degradation, but it requires special fittings and is less flexible. |
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What You'll Learn
- Rubber hoses are flexible and easy to install but are susceptible to cuts and nicks
- Rubber fuel hose must be rated for fuel or meet SAE grades
- Standard rubber hoses should not be used for fuel lines as they deteriorate and cause frequent leakage
- Good quality rubber hoses can work with higher psi
- Braided Hose is a rubber hose with a braided stainless or nylon exterior
Rubber hoses are flexible and easy to install but are susceptible to cuts and nicks
Rubber hoses are flexible and easy to install, but they are susceptible to cuts and nicks. They are a good option for repairing fuel lines, but only if they are of good quality and rated for fuel. Standard rubber hoses, for instance, should never be used for fuel lines as they deteriorate from the inside when in contact with fuel, leading to rubber debris in the carburetor and frequent leakage.
Rubber hoses with higher psi ratings, such as those made of EPDM or NBR, can be used for fuel line repairs and will work with most engines. However, even high-quality rubber hoses will start degrading as soon as they come into contact with fuel and may still be susceptible to cuts and nicks over time. Therefore, it is important to periodically check your hoses for any signs of damage, as cuts or nicks can lead to tiny air leaks that prevent the fuel pump from pulling gas into the motor.
The sun can also cause rubber fuel lines to age, shrink, harden, and crack, so it is best to store them out of direct sunlight. Additionally, ethanol can cause fuel line decomposition, so it is important to use an ethanol-tolerant hose if your fuel contains this substance. Braided hoses, which have a braided stainless or nylon exterior, are a more durable option than plain rubber hoses and can help protect against cuts and nicks.
While rubber hoses can be a quick and flexible solution for repairing fuel lines, their susceptibility to damage means they may not be the best long-term option. For a more durable solution, PTFE-lined hoses are the best soft hose option and will block fuel vapors and slow the degradation process. However, they are less flexible than rubber hoses and require special fittings.
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Rubber fuel hose must be rated for fuel or meet SAE grades
Rubber fuel hoses are a popular choice for many fuel systems due to their ease of installation and low cost. However, they have a limited lifespan and need to be periodically inspected and replaced. When choosing a rubber fuel hose, it is important to select one that is specifically designed for fuel applications and meets the required standards and ratings.
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has developed standards for rubber hoses used in fuel systems, and it is important to ensure that the hose meets these standards to ensure safe and reliable performance. The specific SAE grade required will depend on the specific application and fuel system configuration.
One commonly used SAE grade for rubber fuel hoses is SAE J30R7, which is carburetor-rated and suitable for use in limited runs up to 50 psi. This type of hose is commonly used in outboard motors and other small engines. However, it is important to note that SAE J30R7 hoses have high permeability, which can lead to fuel leakage and a shorter lifespan.
Another option is the SAE J30R9 grade, which is fuel injection-rated and can handle higher pressures up to 100 psi. This type of hose is more durable and resistant to degradation, making it a better choice for long-term use. However, it is important to verify the specifications of the hose by checking the manufacturer's website or official standards documents, as the pressure ratings and permeability of hoses are not always clearly marked.
In addition to the SAE grades, there are other factors to consider when choosing a rubber fuel hose. For example, the hose diameter and other factors can impact the pressure limits, so it is important to consult with experts or reliable sources to ensure the hose is suitable for the specific application. It is also important to consider the compatibility of the hose with the type of fuel being used, as some fuels can degrade the rubber compounds over time.
Overall, while rubber fuel hoses can be a convenient and cost-effective option, it is crucial to select a hose that meets the required standards and is suitable for the specific application. Regular inspection and maintenance of the hose are also important to ensure safe and reliable performance over its lifespan.
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Standard rubber hoses should not be used for fuel lines as they deteriorate and cause frequent leakage
Additionally, rubber hoses are susceptible to kinking, which can lead to the engine dying at the most inopportune times. The hydrophilic properties of ethanol in the fuel can also contribute to corrosion in the carb jets and other parts. Ethanol can cause fuel line decomposition, including delamination, where small pieces can clog jets and lead to carb rebuilds. Phase separation in ethanol-blended fuel can leave globules that the engine cannot process, further highlighting the unsuitability of standard rubber hoses for fuel lines.
To address these issues, it is recommended to use ethanol-tolerant hoses, such as those made by Parker, or to opt for Nylon Tubing or Braided Hose. Braided Hose is a rubber hose with a braided stainless or nylon exterior, enhancing durability. For the best soft hose option, PTFE Lined Hose with a braided exterior is recommended as it blocks fuel vapors and slows the degradation process. However, it is less flexible and requires special fittings.
In summary, standard rubber hoses are not suitable for fuel lines due to their tendency to deteriorate and leak. Alternative options, such as Nylon Tubing, Braided Hose, and PTFE Lined Hose, offer improved durability and resistance to fuel vapors, ensuring a more reliable and safe fuel line solution.
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Good quality rubber hoses can work with higher psi
Rubber hoses are a popular choice for many fuel systems, including outboards. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, they have a limited lifespan and need to be inspected and replaced periodically. The lifespan of a rubber hose depends on its quality, with cheaper hoses tending to be heavier, prone to kinking, and having a strong coil memory.
Good-quality rubber hoses can work with higher psi, depending on the specific application. For example, the Kobalt Hot Water Hose, made primarily of natural rubber, is rated for up to 150 psi at 212°F. In the context of fuel systems, a carbureted engine typically operates at a few psi, while a fuel-injected engine requires much higher pressure—50 psi or more. Therefore, it is crucial to equip your engine with hoses that can reliably handle the required fuel pressure.
To ensure the safe and effective use of rubber hoses in fuel systems, it is essential to consider both pressure rating and permeability. Permeability refers to the ability of fuel to bleed through the walls of the rubber hose and escape into the atmosphere as vapour. This not only results in fuel loss and environmental pollution but also contributes to the deterioration of the hose over time. Modern hoses have been designed with low permeability to address this issue, but cheaper options with higher permeability are still available and popular.
To identify a good-quality rubber hose, look for markings that repeat along the outside. These markings indicate the pressure rating, permeability, compatible fuels, and other essential characteristics. It is crucial to choose a hose that meets the specific requirements of your application, especially when dealing with high-pressure systems. Additionally, proper care and maintenance of rubber hoses, such as avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight, can help extend their lifespan and maintain their functionality.
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Braided Hose is a rubber hose with a braided stainless or nylon exterior
Rubber hoses are a good choice for high-performance vehicles that need a hose to be routed in a difficult place. They are also easier to replace and more resistant to vibration when the right fittings are used. However, rubber lines cannot withstand as much external force as braided lines and need to be replaced more frequently. Rubber lines are also susceptible to damage from UV rays, which can cause them to age, shrink, harden, and crack over time.
Braided hoses, on the other hand, are made with a braided stainless or nylon exterior that provides several advantages. Braided hoses are stiffer and more durable than rubber hoses. They offer better heat dissipation and improved flow, making them a good choice for high-performance applications. Additionally, braided hoses can withstand higher pressures than rubber hoses. For example, the Ace Race Parts brand of stainless braided flex hose features a 300 series stainless steel double-braided exterior for added corrosion and abrasion resistance. It also has a braided nylon inner liner and a reinforced synthetic rubber hose.
When deciding between rubber and braided hoses for fuel lines to carbs on outboard engines, it is important to consider the specific requirements and constraints of the application. Both types of hoses have their own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on factors such as the engine's performance, the routing of the hoses, and the expected external forces and pressures.
In terms of compatibility, it is worth noting that some fuel lines on outboard engines have been known to cause issues. For example, certain Attwood and Sears outboard fuel hoses have been reported to kink easily, leading to engine problems. Additionally, the age of the fuel line can be a factor, as lines older than five years may start to deteriorate due to sun exposure, causing air leaks that affect the engine's performance.
To address these issues, it is recommended to periodically check and replace the fuel hoses as needed. Thicker, ethanol-tolerant hoses can help prevent kinking and improve engine performance. It is also important to consider the compatibility of the fuel hose with the fuel type being used, as some fuels and additives can degrade certain types of hoses.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use a rubber hose to repair your outboard fuel line. However, rubber hoses have some downsides and shouldn't be used to plumb an entire fuel system. Rubber, when contacted with fuel, deteriorates the line from the inside. You may experience rubber debris in the carburetor and fuel filter, as well as frequent leakage.
Nylon Tubing may be a better option for fuel line repairs on a budget. Braided Hose is a rubber hose with a braided stainless or braided nylon exterior. PTFE Lined Hose is the best soft hose you can use and has a braided stainless or braided nylon exterior. The PTFE liner blocks fuel vapors and slows the degradation process.
You may experience leakage or rubber residual that will damage the fuel line. Rubber fuel hoses are susceptible to cuts, nicks, and other abrasions.
