Rajan Wilcox
Braided fuel lines are a crucial component of any vehicle, ensuring the safe and efficient transfer of fuel. With various types of fuel lines available, including rubber, steel, and braided stainless steel, it is essential to choose the right one for your vehicle's specific needs. Braided stainless steel fuel lines, known for their heat and abrasion resistance, are commonly used in high-performance applications. When it comes to installing or replacing braided fuel lines, fittings play a vital role in creating secure connections. Fittings come in different materials, such as aluminium and stainless steel, and specific types like AN fittings, are designed to provide reliable leak-free fluid transfer. This guide will explore the process of working with braided fuel lines and the different fittings available to help you make an informed decision for your vehicle.
How to fittings on braided fuel line
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools required | Vice jaws, Koul Tool, hand grinder, chop saw, tape, pliers, cutters, hacksaws, angle grinder, metal cut-off wheel, eye and ear protection, etc. |
| Steps | 1. Mark the required length of the hose with a pencil. 2. Wrap the end with electrical tape. 3. Cut the hose. 4. Insert the cut braided hose into the socket using a twisting and pushing motion. 5. Apply oil to the inside of the hose and the threads of the socket nut. 6. Use two open-end wrenches to tighten the fitting. |
| Tips | Use a light oil to lubricate the hose. Use a rubber no-slip grip for your hands. Tape the ends of the assembled hoses until you are ready to assemble your cooling, fuel, or oiling systems. |
| Cost | A stainless steel braided fuel line kit can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Individual hoses and fittings start at around $20. |
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What You'll Learn
Braided stainless steel hose cutters
When using braided stainless steel hose cutters, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions. It is recommended to wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection to safeguard against any debris or dust created during the cutting process. Before cutting, ensure the hose is securely clamped in a vise to hold it in place and provide a stable cutting surface.
To achieve a clean cut, it is essential to use the right type of cutter for the job. While some sources suggest using a hand grinder with a thin 4-inch cut-off wheel, others recommend specialised tools like the RHP braided hose cutting shears or the Summit Racing braided stainless hose cutters. These specialised cutters are designed to cut through braided stainless steel hoses without crushing or fraying the material.
In addition to the right tools, the proper technique is crucial for a successful cut. It is advised to go slow and straight when cutting to avoid any unwanted damage to the hose. After cutting, it is common to wrap the ends of the hose with electrical tape to prevent fraying and ensure a tight fit. By taking the time to prepare, use the right tools, and follow the correct techniques, you can cut braided stainless steel hoses safely and effectively.
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Using a hand grinder
- Prepare the Work Area: Ensure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. Gather all the necessary tools and materials, including the hand grinder, safety gear, and the braided fuel line.
- Measure and Mark: Determine the desired length of the braided fuel line. Use a tape measure to mark the cutting point on the line. You can use masking tape or electrical tape to mark the cutting position and prevent the stainless steel braid from flaring out.
- Safety Gear: Put on appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, such as safety goggles or a face shield, and gloves. Braided fuel lines can have sharp edges, and the cutting process may generate debris.
- Clamp the Line: Securely clamp the braided fuel line in a vice. This will stabilize the line and provide a firm grip during the cutting process. Ensure the line is firmly held in place to prevent any unwanted movement.
- Select the Right Grinding Wheel: Choose a thin cut-off wheel that is specifically designed for metal cutting. A 4-inch diameter cut-off wheel is commonly used for this purpose. Ensure the wheel is in good condition and properly installed on the hand grinder.
- Cutting Technique: With the grinder switched off, position the cutting wheel at the marked cutting point on the braided fuel line. Start the grinder and slowly and carefully cut through the line. Go slow and straight. Do not force the grinder; let the wheel do the work.
- Cooling and Cleaning: After cutting, allow the braided fuel line and the grinding wheel to cool down. Use a brush or compressed air to remove any debris or metal filings from the line and the surrounding area.
- Remove the Tape: Once cut, carefully remove the tape from the end of the hose. Pull the tape forward to avoid lifting any strands or causing fraying. A clean and smooth end will facilitate a better connection with the fitting.
- Fitting the Hose: You can now proceed to install the fitting onto the braided fuel line. Insert the cut end of the hose into the fitting using a twisting and pushing motion. Ensure that the hose reaches the back of the threads inside the socket nut.
- Final Assembly: Follow the specific instructions for your fitting type to complete the assembly. This may involve threading, clamping, or using additional tools to secure the connection. Refer to the fitting manufacturer's instructions for detailed steps.
Remember to always prioritize safety when using power tools like hand grinders. Work in a well-ventilated area, keep bystanders away from the work area, and follow all safety guidelines provided by the tool manufacturer.
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Inserting the fitting at an angle
When inserting the fitting at an angle, it is important to start by putting it on the hose at an angle. This is a crucial step to ensure that none of the braided steel gets caught or hung up during the installation process. Next, squeeze the end of the hose and carefully insert it into the fitting. This step requires precision to avoid any tangling or snagging of the braided steel strands.
Once the hose is successfully inserted into the fitting, you will notice that the fitting has coloured parts, typically red and blue. Begin by twisting the red part in a counter-clockwise direction until it reaches its maximum depth. This action will help secure the hose firmly in place within the fitting. After the red part is fully tightened, it's time to move on to the blue part.
Thread the blue part of the fitting in the same counter-clockwise direction as you did with the red part. This action will further secure the connection and create a tight seal. Finally, use two open-end wrenches to tighten the blue part completely. This two-step process ensures that the fitting is securely attached to the hose, preventing any leaks or disconnections.
It is important to note that the process of inserting the fitting at an angle may vary slightly depending on the specific type and design of the braided fuel line you are working with. Some fittings may have different coloured parts or additional components. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek expert advice if you are unsure about any steps.
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Using PTFE (Teflon) lined braided hoses
PTFE (Teflon) lined braided hoses are a great option for braided fuel lines. They are compatible with ethanol-blended fuels and are smaller in outer diameter (OD) than traditional braided lines. This makes them ideal for tight spaces and they are also easy to assemble. PTFE-lined braided hoses are also quite durable and long-lasting. They do not harden, micro-fracture or permeate fuel vapour like normal rubber braided lines, minimising the fuel smell in the vehicle storage area.
PTFE-lined braided hoses are available in standard sizes, including AN -06, -08, -10 and AN-12, and come in pre-cut lengths ranging from 4 feet to 16 feet. They are well-suited for street and racing applications where E85, gasoline or methanol-compatible fuel lines are required. The stainless steel outer braid of these hoses provides impact and abrasion resistance while also protecting the PTFE inner liner.
When using PTFE-lined braided hoses, it is important to note that you must use PTFE hose end fittings specifically designed for PTFE-lined hoses. Additionally, to adapt to AN fittings, you will need a flare nut and a proper 37-degree flare tool.
It is always recommended to spend time planning your fuel line setup, especially if you don't have easy access to an AN supplier. Ensure you have the necessary adapters and fittings before starting your project.
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Using Tube Nuts
Braided fuel lines are available in a wide range of diameters and are easy to work with. They are also highly reliable and easy to obtain. Braided stainless steel fuel lines are the most common type of high-end fuel lines. They offer the highest level of performance and are often used in high-performance applications due to their resistance to heat and abrasion.
When it comes to assembling tube nuts and sleeves onto a hard line, you will need some specialised tools, which are not common in the average toolbox. You will need a tubing cutter and a 37-degree flaring tool. The tubing cutter is used to cut the line by marking the location with a pen and then slicing through the stainless steel. The 37-degree flaring tool is used to flare the end of the hard line.
To cut the line, position the tubing on the rollers inside the tubing cutter, tighten the knob, and turn the cutter around the tubing. While the cutting wheel bites into the tubing, continue tightening the knob. After a few spins, the tubing will be cut. You will then need to dress the cut with a small fine-tooth file. It is also a good idea to debur the inside of the tubing and add a small amount of lube to the inside and outside diameters of the tubing prior to flaring.
Next, install the tube nut and tube sleeve. Pull the tube sleeve to the flare, followed by the tube nut. Always double-check the fit. If you make a mistake, you will have to start over, which will be more work and shorten the line.
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Frequently asked questions
The simplest way to fit braided fuel lines is to use tube nuts. You can use aluminium tubing and mate them to the AN fitting.
You will need a flaring tool, a set of vice jaws, and a cutter, hacksaw, or cut-off wheel. You can also use a hand grinder, but be sure to wear protective eyewear.
The most common types of fuel lines are rubber, steel, and braided stainless steel. Rubber fuel lines are the most affordable and are suitable for low-pressure applications. Steel fuel lines are more durable and can handle higher pressure. Braided stainless steel fuel lines offer the highest level of performance and are often used in high-performance applications due to their resistance to heat and abrasion.
Braided fuel line kits can be purchased from automotive retailers such as JEGS, Summit Racing, and Speedflow. These retailers offer a range of options in different sizes and materials to fit your specific needs and budget.
