Regan Brown
Marine-rated fuel lines are essential for boats to prevent the trapping of gasoline fumes in enclosed areas, particularly inboard engine compartments. The wrong fuel line for application, a non-marine-rated fuel pump, or a non-marine-rated alternator can all pose significant threats. Marine-approved fuel lines are designed to be fire-resistant and come in different ratings and sizes to suit specific needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel line type | A1 rated marine hose, B1 rated hose, A2 rated hose |
| Fuel hose size | 3/8", 5/8", 1/4" |
| Engine type | Gasoline, diesel |
| Engine size | Smaller diesel engines may use a 1/4" hose |
| Fuel tank type | Permanently mounted, portable |
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What You'll Learn
Marine-approved fuel lines
For inboard engines and outboard motors with a permanently mounted fuel tank, you should use a marine-rated fuel line that is fire-resistant. The most common sizes are 3/8” and 5/8”, which are suitable for gasoline engines. You can also find smaller sizes, such as ¼”, for diesel engines. The SAE Type A-2 fuel fill hose, SAE Type A-2 vent hose, and SAE Type A-1 fill hose are all suitable options for this type of engine and fuel tank configuration.
For outboard motors above deck, you can use a flexible B1-rated hose, which can be adapted from the A1 fuel line. If you have an outboard motor with a portable fuel tank, you can use a low-permeation fuel line assembly that includes a primer bulb, fuel hose, FDV valve, and fuel line connectors.
It is important to ensure that your fuel lines are in good condition and have not exceeded their lifespan. Metal fuel lines, for example, do not have an age limit as long as they are not rusted. If you are unsure about the type of fuel line you need or the condition of your current lines, it is best to consult a marine supplier or expert.
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Marine-rated fuel lines
The most common sizes are the 3/8” marine fuel hose and the 5/8” marine fuel hose, both of which are suitable for gasoline engines. Smaller diesel engines may use a ¼” fuel hose, but this size quickly becomes inadequate as engine size increases due to the injection system’s demand for more fuel.
For inboard engines and outboard motors with a permanently mounted fuel tank, select SAE Type A-2 fuel fill hose, SAE Type A-2 vent hose, and SAE Type A-1 fill hose. For outboard motors above deck, the A1 fuel line above deck can be adapted/jointed into a flexible B1-rated hose. B1-rated hoses can be used entirely for outboard motor portable tanks not enclosed in the boat.
Fuel hose can be purchased by the foot and assembled with other components to create a custom fuel feed hose. Marine grade fuel line is available in the length and diameter needed for your boat’s motor.
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Fuel line sizes
The most common fuel hose sizes are 3/8” and 5/8”, which are suitable for gasoline engines. Smaller diesel engines may use a 1/4” fuel hose, but this size quickly becomes inadequate as engine size increases due to the injection system's demand for more fuel.
It is important to ensure that the fuel line is of marine-approved type and that it is fire-resistant, especially in enclosed engine compartments or permanent fuel tanks. Metal fuel lines are also an option as long as they are not rusted out.
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Fuel line materials
For inboard engines and outboard motors with a permanently mounted fuel tank, the recommended fuel line is typically an SAE Type A-1 or A-2 fuel fill hose, with the A-2 hose being more common. These hoses are designed to be fire-resistant and are suitable for gasoline engines. The A1 fuel line can also be adapted for use with outboard motors above deck, where it can be jointed into a flexible B1-rated hose. B1-rated hoses are also suitable for outboard motor portable tanks that are not enclosed within the boat.
The size of the fuel hose is another important factor. The most common sizes are the 3/8” and 5/8” marine fuel hoses, which are suitable for gasoline engines. Smaller diesel engines may use a ¼” fuel hose, but this size may become inadequate for larger engines with fuel-injected systems that require a greater volume of fuel.
It is worth noting that metal fuel lines were used in older boats, and as long as they are not rusted, there is no age limit on these lines. However, it is generally recommended to use marine-rated fuel lines to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
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Fuel line suppliers
When it comes to fuel lines for marine use, it's important to ensure that the fuel line is of a marine-approved type. The most common sizes are the 3/8” marine fuel hose and the 5/8” marine fuel hose, both of which are suitable for gasoline engines. Smaller diesel engines may use a 1/4” fuel hose, but this size can quickly become inadequate as engine size increases.
For inboard engines and outboard motors with a permanently mounted fuel tank, you should select a marine-grade fuel hose that is designed to be fire-resistant. West Marine offers a range of fuel lines for inboard and outboard engines, including the SAE Type A-2 fuel fill hose, SAE Type A-2 vent hose, and SAE Type A-1 fill hose.
For outboard motors above deck, an A1 fuel line can be adapted or jointed into a flexible B1-rated hose. B1-rated hoses can be used entirely for outboard motor portable tanks that are not enclosed in the boat.
When choosing a fuel line supplier, it's important to consider the specific needs of your boat's engine and fuel system. Suppliers such as West Marine offer a range of fuel lines and assemblies that are compliant with EPA and CARB standards and can be customised to fit your boat's unique requirements. It's also essential to ensure that the fuel lines are properly fitted and maintained to avoid potential safety hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
For inboard engines and outboard motors with a permanently mounted fuel tank, you should select SAE Type A-2 fuel fill hose, SAE Type A-2 vent hose and SAE Type A-1 fill hose. For outboard motors above deck, the A1 fuel line can be adapted/jointed into a flexible B1 rated hose.
The most common sizes are the 3/8’ marine fuel hose and the 5/8’ marine fuel hose, both of which are suitable for gasoline engines. Smaller diesel engines may use a ¼’ fuel hose, but this size quickly becomes inadequate as engine size increases.
It is important to ensure that the fuel line is of marine-approved type. In an enclosed engine compartment or a permanent fuel tank, you must use A1 rated marine hose that is designed to be fire resistant.
