Featherlite Weed Eater: Replacing The Fuel Line

The fuel lines on a Featherlite weed eater are known to degrade over time and eventually break. The small fuel line is the suction line that provides gas to the carburetor from the gas tank, while the large fuel line is the return line from the carburetor, sending excess gas back to the tank. To replace the fuel lines, you will need to remove the gas tank, pull out the old lines, and feed the new lines into the tank through the appropriate holes. You may also need to purchase a new fuel filter if the old one is damaged. It is important to take safety precautions when performing this repair, as it involves handling gasoline.

How to Replace Fuel Line on Featherlite Weed Eater

Safety precautions

Always wear safety gear when working on your weed eater. This includes safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from debris and fuel. It is also recommended to wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from fuel and any sharp edges.

Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. If possible, work outdoors or in a space with good air circulation. Avoid working near open flames or sparks, as gasoline fumes are highly flammable and can cause an explosion.

Before beginning any repairs, make sure the engine is cool and the fuel tank is empty. Gasoline is highly flammable, and working with a hot engine or a full fuel tank can be dangerous.

When removing the old fuel lines, use needle-nose pliers to carefully loosen any clamps or connectors. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fuel tank or other components. Drain excess fuel from the lines into an approved container to prevent spills.

When cutting or fitting new fuel lines, ensure they match the correct size and diameter. Incorrect sizing can lead to leaks and affect the weed eater's performance. Smooth any jagged edges on connectors with a file or sandpaper to avoid damaging the fuel lines.

Finally, always dispose of old fuel lines and filters properly. Do not burn them, as this can produce toxic fumes. Check with your local waste management guidelines for the correct disposal method.

Removing the fuel lines

To remove the fuel lines from your Featherlite weed eater, start by disconnecting the spark plug wire from the spark plug and ensure that it cannot make contact with the plug. Pour the gasoline from the trimmer into a gas can using a funnel to avoid spillage.

Next, pull the two fuel lines off the carburetor by hand or with a pair of needle-nose pliers. There may be a small amount of fuel leakage, so be sure to wipe it up before proceeding.

Now, unscrew the two screws that hold the gas tank onto the trimmer with a Torx T25 screwdriver and remove the gas tank. Pull the two fuel lines out of the trimmer one at a time. As you do this, a small cylindrical fuel line filter will come off the thin line leading into the tank. Set it aside so you can reattach it to the new line later.

Dispose of the old, damaged fuel lines appropriately. At this point, your Featherlite weed eater will have no fuel lines attached, and you will be ready to install the new fuel lines.

It is important to work carefully and follow safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs involving gasoline. Always work in a well-ventilated area and ensure no sparks or open flames are present.

Purchasing new fuel lines

When purchasing new fuel lines for your Featherlite weed eater, it's important to keep in mind that there are two different sizes of fuel lines: a small suction line and a larger return line. The small fuel line is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank to the carburetor, while the larger line returns any unused fuel from the carburetor back to the tank.

You can find fuel line replacement kits online, such as on eBay, that include both sizes of fuel lines. These kits typically come with other useful items like a fuel filter, primer bulb, and grommets. When purchasing a kit, ensure that it is compatible with your Featherlite model. Check the kit's specifications and your weed eater's manual to confirm compatibility.

Additionally, consider the material and quality of the fuel lines. Look for fuel lines made from durable materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to gasoline, such as Tygon. Cheap, low-quality fuel lines may degrade faster and require more frequent replacements.

When purchasing individual fuel lines or a kit, pay attention to the inner diameter measurements. For example, you may need a small fuel line with a 3/32-inch inner diameter and a larger line with a 6/32-inch inner diameter. These measurements are crucial for ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance.

Finally, consider purchasing from a reputable seller with positive reviews for their fuel line products. This can help ensure that you receive quality parts that will last and provide the necessary functionality for your Featherlite weed eater.

Inserting the new fuel lines

To replace the fuel lines on your Featherlite weed eater, you will need to purchase a repair kit that includes the fuel filter and new fuel lines. When you have your kit, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you are wearing safety glasses and gloves. Then, feed the new thinner fuel line into the gas tank through the small hole from which you removed the old, damaged line. Push it through the small hole and out through the large hole where the lid for the gas tank sits. You may need to use a pair of bent needle-nose pliers to grasp the fuel line and pull it through. Now, attach the fuel line filter to the end of the tube and push it back into the tank through the large opening. Feed enough of the thinner fuel line into the tank so that the fuel line filter sits at the bottom.

Next, feed the thicker fuel line into the hole from which you removed the damaged one. Push the thicker line into the tank until it reaches the bottom. The thicker line should stick into the tank far enough so it cannot be pulled out, perhaps an inch or two.

Now that the new fuel lines are in place, reattach the gas tank to the weed eater. Reattach the fuel lines to the carburetor, ensuring they are in the same positions as they were originally. Finally, reconnect the spark plug wire.

Your Featherlite weed eater's fuel lines are now replaced.

Reattaching the fuel tank

• Ensure that the fuel tank is clean and free of any debris or broken fuel lines.
• Identify the two holes in the fuel tank. One hole is smaller and is for the fuel suction line, while the other is larger and accommodates the fuel return line.
• Obtain a replacement fuel line kit, which includes both the smaller and larger diameter fuel lines.
• Feed the new, thinner fuel line (the suction line) into the small hole in the fuel tank. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers, if needed, to grasp the line and pull it through.
• Attach the fuel filter to the end of the thinner fuel line. Push the fuel filter and the line back into the tank until the filter reaches the bottom of the tank.
• Feed the thicker fuel line (the return line) into the larger hole in the fuel tank. Push it in just far enough so that it remains secure and doesn't pull out, usually about an inch or two.
• Reattach the fuel tank to the weed eater using the appropriate screws.
• Reconnect the fuel lines to the carburetor, ensuring they are in the correct positions.

It is important to note that you should always work in a well-ventilated area when handling gasoline and fuel lines. Additionally, wearing safety glasses and gloves is recommended to protect yourself from any fuel spills or debris.

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