Katerina Swanson
Knowing where the fuel line goes is an essential aspect of car maintenance and repair. The fuel line is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, and the specific route it takes can vary depending on the car's make and model. Understanding the fuel line's path is crucial for troubleshooting and ensuring the car's optimal performance. In this discussion, we will delve into the intricacies of fuel line routing, including the various components involved and the factors that influence the fuel line's direction. By the end of this topic, you should be able to confidently answer the question, Where does the fuel line go? and develop a deeper understanding of your vehicle's fuel system.
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What You'll Learn
Fuel line routing
One key consideration is the length of the fuel line. Generally, longer flex lines are preferred as they allow for more movement and can reduce strain on the fuel outlet, making them less likely to break. Longer lines also provide easier access and can eliminate the need for extra couplers. It is important to use rubber-insulated line clamps every 12 inches or so to secure the line. Additionally, the bends in the fuel line should be made as smooth and wide in diameter as possible, avoiding sharp 90-degree bends.
The placement of the fuel line in relation to the exhaust is critical for safety. Modern cars typically have exposed fuel lines under the car, and it is important to maintain a safe distance from the exhaust to prevent any potential hazards. A minimum of two inches of air space between the exhaust and the fuel line is recommended.
Another factor to consider is the type of hose used for the fuel line. The hose should be flexible yet durable and able to withstand high or low-pressure applications. Popular brands include Goodridge and APS. For inside the car, a non-permeable hose is ideal as it does not allow vapours to escape and has a higher pressure rating. This type of hose is also suitable for connections inside the tank where it may be submerged.
Finally, it is important to secure the fuel hose properly to prevent movement and protect it from heat. This can be achieved through the use of clamps and supports, ensuring that the hose is firmly in place and not susceptible to damage from nearby components.
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Fuel hose types
Fuel hoses are typically made from materials such as rubber, steel, aluminium, nylon, or synthetic fibres. The type of hose used depends on the application, with factors such as pressure, temperature, and permeability being important considerations.
Rubber Fuel Hoses
Rubber fuel hoses were commonly used in the past, but the makeup of modern fuels means that they are now less common. Ethanol blends and additives like benzene and toluene can degrade rubber hoses over time, making them brittle and prone to leaks. However, modern flexible rubber hoses are designed to withstand today's blended gasolines and diesel fuels.
Metal Fuel Hoses
Metal fuel lines are made from materials such as steel or aluminium. They are generally more expensive than rubber or braided fuel lines and are well-suited for low-horsepower and low-pressure situations. Seamless aluminium hard lines are a cost-effective choice for both high and low-pressure fuel lines and offer exceptional durability.
Nylon Fuel Hoses
Nylon fuel hoses are often used by manufacturers due to their ability to reduce evaporative emissions to very low levels. They have a smooth internal surface and can be made to conform to different shapes, making installation quick and easy. Nylon hoses are resistant to most fuel types, have an operating pressure of 250 psi, and an operating temperature range of -30 to 120 degrees Celsius. However, they require special tools to replace the quick connects and are more difficult to work with due to their rigid construction.
Braided Fuel Hoses
Braided fuel lines are made from a metal or synthetic fibre braid that is wrapped around a rubber or elastomeric core. They are generally an upgrade from metal or rubber fuel lines as they offer more flexibility and utilise AN fittings, which are superior to traditional hose clamps. Braided fuel hoses are available in both nitrile and PTFE inner cores with stainless, polyester, or nylon braids.
SAE Fuel Hoses
SAE fuel hoses are marked with an SAE number that indicates the type of material and the hose's specifications. For example, SAE 30R6 and 30R7 hoses are designed for low-pressure applications and are not compatible with ethanol and modern fuel additives. On the other hand, SAE 30R9 hoses are designed for high-pressure applications and can handle various fuel types, including ethanol-blend fuels.
Other types of fuel hoses include the Type A1 and Type B1 hoses recommended by the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC). Type A1 is suitable for gasoline supply, while Type B1 is recommended for diesel-based applications.
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Fuel flow direction
The fuel flow direction typically goes from the tank to the fuel pump, then through a filter and out to the engine. The carburetor or injector is the last stop before combustion, where the fuel and air are mixed and fed to the combustion chamber.
Most inline fuel filters have an arrow indicating the direction of flow, with the arrow pointing towards the carburetor or injector. This ensures that any dirt or crud accumulates on the outside of the filter element, preventing it from entering the fuel system. If there are no markings on the filter, you can test the flow by placing a rubber hose over the line coming from the tank and directing it into a glass jar. If you are getting an adequate flow, you can check if the injectors are firing using a noid light.
It is important to regularly inspect and replace fuel lines and filters to prevent damage and ensure unrestricted flow. If you are unsure about the direction of flow, it is recommended to seek professional advice or refer to vehicle-specific documentation.
Additionally, when working with fuel lines and filters, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential hazards, such as fires or ruptures.
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Fuel hose support
There are several types of hoses available, each with its own advantages and requirements for support. For example, a simple push-on hose is reasonably flexible and can be used for high or low-pressure applications, but it requires support clamps to hold it in place. On the other hand, hardline tubing made of aluminium is more rigid and can retain its shape without as many clamps, making it ideal for long hose runs.
When planning the fuel system, it is recommended to draw a diagram to visualise the placement of components and identify any potential issues. This includes considering the type of hose fittings required and ensuring the hose is secured and protected from heat.
One example of a fuel hose with built-in support is the GPI 3/4-inch x 14-foot fuel hose, which features a spring support to avoid kinking. It also includes a static wire to prevent static electricity buildup, ensuring safe operation. This type of hose is designed for use with AC or DC electric fuel transfer pumps and hand pumps.
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Fuel system issues
Firstly, fuel injectors can get clogged or malfunction. Burning air and gasoline creates carbon deposits, and these deposits can clog the fuel injectors. Additionally, fuel injectors can malfunction if they get stuck in the open or closed position. It is also possible for the fuel pump to clog or malfunction, especially if the motor overheats or burns out.
The fuel lines themselves can also experience issues. Clogged or leaking fuel lines can be caused by age. Leaking fuel lines are extremely dangerous as excess gasoline can ignite, disrupt your vehicle's exhaust, and even cause flames to shoot out of the tailpipe.
To prevent issues with the fuel lines, regular fuel system maintenance is important. This includes ensuring the fuel hose is secure and protected from heat. Before installation, it is recommended to draw a simple diagram of where you intend to mount the various components to visualise any potential issues.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel line from the tank goes to the fuel pump on the engine in the upper hose. It then goes to the fuel filter in the lower hose from the pump to the right-hand side of the fuel filter. It then goes through the filter and out on the left-hand side to the short black hose that heads down.
The type of hose you should use depends on the type of fitting required. Most production cars will have push-on hoses, with 8mm bore being the most common. The hose should be reasonably flexible and suitable for high or low-pressure applications.
Thought should be given to securing the fuel hose so that it will not move and also be protected from heat. It is recommended to use around 6 inches of flexible fuel hose to connect at the engine and the tank. This isolates vibration and movement and makes it easier to drop the tank in the future.
