Sylvie Willis
When it comes to securing RC fuel lines, there are a variety of methods and tools that can be used. Zip ties, safety wire, and clamps are among the most commonly used options. While zip ties are convenient and widely available, they can cause leaks if not properly tightened or if used on small radii. Safety wire, on the other hand, provides a more secure option when wrapped twice around the fuel line and twisted with a tool like needle-nose pliers or safety wire pliers. Some RC enthusiasts also recommend soldering fuel line barbs or using small blobs of solder to secure the fuel lines, adding an extra layer of safety. Ultimately, the choice of method depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the RC vehicle.
How to twist tie an RC fuel line
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Safety wire pliers, straight hemostat, needle nose pliers, K&S steel rod, flat blade screwdriver, stainless hose clamps, tie strap gun, solder, cable ties |
| Techniques | Wrap safety wire twice around the fuel line before twisting, use a flat blade screwdriver to hold the clip part of the wire tie, pull the tag end with pliers, use snap clamps, use contoured zip ties |
| Tips | Don't overtighten clamps as it may crack the plastic, use the correct size of hose to prevent leaks, use small nylon ties on outside connections, use aviation lock wire to avoid cutting into the fuel line |
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What You'll Learn
Zip ties vs. safety wire
When it comes to securing RC fuel lines, there are a few methods that can be used, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Two of the most common methods are using zip ties or safety wire.
Zip ties, also known as cable ties, are easy to use and can be tightened with a simple pair of pliers. They are also inexpensive and readily available, making them a popular choice for many RC enthusiasts. However, one of the main drawbacks of zip ties is that they can apply uneven pressure to the fuel line, causing it to "bunch up" and potentially leak. This can be mitigated by wrapping the zip tie twice around the fuel line, but this also increases the chances of the zip tie breaking.
Safety wire, on the other hand, provides a more secure and even seal around the fuel line. It involves wrapping a thin metal wire around the fuel line and twisting the ends together with a pair of pliers or specialised safety wire pliers. This method ensures that the fuel line does not slip off and creates a perfect seal, preventing air bubbles from entering the system. However, safety wire can be more time-consuming and difficult to work with, especially in tight spaces.
Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between zip ties and safety wire ultimately depends on the user's preference and the specific requirements of their RC vehicle. Those who value convenience and cost-effectiveness may opt for zip ties, while those seeking a more secure and reliable seal may prefer safety wire.
It is worth noting that some users have reported success with using other methods, such as soldering a paper clip onto the fuel line or using clamps, to secure their RC fuel lines. Ultimately, the best method may involve a combination of these techniques or adaptations to suit the unique needs of each RC setup.
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Pliers to tighten zip ties
When it comes to tightening zip ties for RC fuel lines, there are a few methods and tools that can be used to achieve a secure and leak-proof connection. One common approach is to use a pair of pliers. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use pliers to tighten zip ties effectively:
Choosing the Right Pliers
It is important to select a suitable type of pliers for this task. Needle-nose pliers, also known as long-nose pliers, are a good option due to their narrow and elongated jaws. This design allows for better access and precision when working in tight spaces, which is often the case with RC fuel lines. Additionally, consider using "Safety Wire Pliers," specifically designed for twisting wire onto fuel lines.
Preparing the Zip Tie
Before tightening, ensure that the zip tie is properly positioned and threaded through the appropriate holes or around the fuel line. Hold the zip tie firmly in one hand, grasping the "lock end" or the "ramped part" that connects to the hose. This will provide stability and prevent slippage when applying tension.
Tightening with Pliers
Take the pliers in your other hand and grasp the "tag end" of the zip tie, which is the end that you pull to tighten. Apply firm and steady pressure with the pliers to pull the tag end as tightly as possible. This action creates tension on the zip tie, securing it in place. If needed, you can also use a flat blade screwdriver held against the clip part of the wire tie while simultaneously pulling the tag end with the pliers.
Avoiding Overtightening
While it is important to tighten the zip tie securely, be cautious not to overtighten it. Overtightening can lead to unwanted consequences, such as cracking the plastic or causing uneven pressure on the fuel line, resulting in potential leaks. It is advisable to tighten the zip tie just enough to prevent slippage, ensuring a snug fit without excessive force.
Additional Tips
To enhance the security of the connection, consider using the "double wrap" technique. This involves wrapping the zip tie twice around the fuel line before tightening. This method helps distribute the pressure more evenly and reduces the chances of leakage. Additionally, always inspect the fuel line for any signs of damage or wear, as a damaged hose may leak even with a tightly secured zip tie.
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Safety wire pliers
When using safety wire pliers, it is important to be mindful of the challenges of accessing tight spaces. Some users have suggested making their own tool by using a K&S steel rod, filing it down, and drilling a hole to accommodate two pieces of security wire. This DIY tool can then be used to twist the wire by pulling the wires in opposite directions and rotating the rod.
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K&S steel rod as an alternative
To twist tie an RC fuel line, one of the tools you can use is a K&S steel rod. This method is suggested as an alternative to using safety wire pliers, which can be difficult to manoeuvre into small spaces.
The K&S steel rod should be around 4-5mm in diameter and long enough to hold in your hand with a few inches extending past your grip. You can file a flat at one end of the rod by filing both sides until it's about 1mm thick. Then, drill a hole in the end that's large enough to accept two pieces of your chosen security wire.
To use the tool, first wrap the wire around the tube. Then, take one end of the wire and pass it through the hole, and do the same with the other end in the opposite direction. Pull the wires until the head of the tool is about an inch away from the tube. Rotate the rod in one direction, and the wire will twist into a progressively tighter grip. Finally, snip off and remove the two ends from the tool.
K&S offers a variety of metal rods in different materials, lengths, and thicknesses. For instance, they offer stainless steel rods in 1/8 x 12 inches, and brass rods in 1mm x 1 metre, 4mm x 1 metre, and 3/8 x 36 inches, among others.
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Solder the tubing
When it comes to soldering the tubing for your RC fuel line, there are a few methods and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to use a gasoline-compatible fuel line, such as DuBro's Tygon, for your fuel system plumbing. This includes the tubing inside the tank and a gasoline-proof rubber tank stopper.
Now, onto the soldering process. Some people prefer to solder barbs onto the tubing, while others opt for securing the tubing with zip ties or safety wire. If you choose to solder barbs, here's a method that can help prevent melting the stopper:
- Solder one end of the tubing first.
- Assemble the cap, stopper, and backplate, pushing them against the soldered barb.
- Solder the remaining barb.
Alternatively, you can try to move the stopper as far away as possible and use a heat sink, such as a pair of needle-nose pliers with a rubber band, on the brass tube between the solder point and the stopper. This will help dissipate some of the heat away from the stopper.
Another option is to use threaded fittings that are barbed and stopper-free, although changing the stopper can be more challenging with this method.
Regardless of the method you choose, always remember to use materials that are compatible with gasoline to ensure the safety and longevity of your RC fuel line setup.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use safety wire pliers, a straight hemostat, or a simple pair of pliers.
Zip ties are a common choice, but they can cause leaks if they are not properly tightened or if they are used on small radii. Safety wire, lock wire, and small nylon ties are also popular options.
Hold the ramped part of the zip tie against the hose, then pull it tight with a pair of pliers.
