Sylvie Willis
Fuel lines are typically warranted for 3-5 years, but some sources suggest that they should be replaced every 10 years. This is because the sun can cause the bulb, rubber end connector inserts, and fuel line to age, shrink, harden and crack, leading to tiny air leaks that prevent the fuel pump from pulling gas into the motor. If you notice any cracking or splitting, it's best to replace the fuel lines as soon as possible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to replace fuel lines | Every 3-5 years, or 10 years maximum |
| When to replace fuel lines | When the fuel hose is no longer soft and flexible, or when the fuel line is cracking or splitting |
| What to do if the fuel line is older than 5 years | Put some grease on the end fittings at the tank and motor |
| How to prevent fuel line deterioration | Store your fuel line out of the sun |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel lines should be replaced every 15 years
Fuel lines are typically warranted for 3-5 years, but some sources suggest that they should be replaced every 10 years, or even every 5 years if they are exposed to sunlight. This is because the sun can cause the fuel line to deteriorate, leading to leaks.
Even if the fuel lines look perfect from the outside, they may be "dissolving" from the inside. This can lead to gas leaking under an outboard cowl, which can be dangerous. It is recommended that you change the fuel lines from the tank to the carbs and get at least an inline filter at the same time. This will save you a lot of carb problems.
It is also a good idea to store your fuel line out of the sun and to place the non-UV treated hose within a flexible plastic split wire loom. This will help to prolong the life of the fuel line.
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Lines exposed to sunlight should be replaced more frequently
Fuel lines are typically warranted for 3-5 years, but it is recommended that you replace them after 10 years. However, if they are exposed to sunlight, they should be replaced more frequently. Sunlight causes the bulb, rubber end connector inserts, and fuel line to age, shrink, harden and crack, leading to tiny air leaks that prevent the fuel pump from pulling gas into the motor, especially at idle. This can cause the engine to struggle to idle but be OK at higher rpm. If your fuel lines are exposed to sunlight, it is recommended that you replace them every 3-5 years.
To prevent this, you can store your fuel lines out of the sun. You can also place the non-UV treated hose within one of those split wire looms that are flexible plastic and split lengthwise. This will help to protect your fuel lines from the sun's UV rays.
Additionally, it is important to regularly check your fuel lines for any signs of deterioration. If you notice any cracking or splitting, it is best to replace them all at that time, before they give you any trouble. Good luck!
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Fuel lines can deteriorate from the inside
Even if the fuel lines look perfect from the outside, they may be "dissolving" from the inside. One mechanic recommends that customers with pre-2008 boats replace their fuel lines. Another source suggests that if the fuel lines are 15 years old, they should be replaced, as they may be breaking up inside and leaking gas under the outboard cowl.
To prevent problems, it's recommended to change the fuel lines from the tank to the carbs and to get an inline filter at the same time. This will help to avoid carb problems. Additionally, storing your fuel line out of the sun and using a non-UV treated hose within a flexible plastic split wire loom can help to prolong its life.
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Fuel lines should be soft and flexible
If you have an older boat, it is recommended that you replace your fuel lines if they are pre-2008. It is also worth noting that fuel lines that are showing deterioration on the outside are also deteriorated on the inside. If you notice any cracking or splitting, it is best to replace them all at once before they cause any trouble.
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Quick fixes can be done to prevent leaks
Fuel lines are typically warranted for 3-5 years, but it is recommended to replace them every 10 years. This is because the sun causes the bulb, rubber end connector inserts, and fuel line to age, shrink, harden and crack, leading to tiny air leaks that prevent the fuel pump from pulling gas into the motor, especially at idle.
If you notice any cracking or splitting, you should replace the fuel lines as soon as possible. Fuel lines that are showing deterioration on the outside are also deteriorated on the inside. If your fuel lines are 15 years old, it is recommended to change them to avoid leaks and potential safety hazards.
To prevent leaks, you can try some quick fixes before replacing the entire line. If the engine won't idle but is OK at higher RPM, you can put some grease on the end fittings at the tank and motor. You should also store your fuel line out of the sun to prevent UV damage. Additionally, you can place the non-UV treated hose within a flexible plastic split wire loom to protect it from the sun.
It is also important to regularly change your fuel filters and check them for sediment. This can help prevent clogs and potential leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
Fuel lines are typically warranted for 3-5 years. However, it is recommended that you replace them every 10 years, or sooner if they are exposed to sunlight.
The fuel hose should remain soft and flexible. If it becomes hard, this is a sign that it needs to be replaced. You should also look out for cracks or splits in the fuel line, as this can lead to leaks.
If your fuel line is not replaced when necessary, it can lead to leaks and cause problems with your engine. This can result in your boat becoming stranded.
Replacing a fuel line typically takes around 2 hours.
The cost of replacing a fuel line can vary, but it is generally around $20.
