Selecting The Correct Fuel Line
Factory fuel lines were never intended for high performance use. All too often, enthusiasts overlook the fuel lines when building a car for racing. When larger carbs and high volume fuel pumps are installed for racing, the inadequacies of the factory fuel line diameter become very apparent. Reusing the stock lines will only get you back on the trailer in a big hurry.
Choosing the correct fuel line diameter is also critical for a properly functioning fuel system. 3/8" diameter line should be considered the minimum allowable size on any type of performance vehicle. Fuel line diameter should increase in direct proportion to horsepower level and increased fuel demand.
We currently offer line in,Synthetic Lined Braided Stainless Steel, PTFE Lined Braided Stainless Steel, Pushlite Hose or3003 Aluminum Tubing.
Each style is specifically engineered for its application. For example, our 3003 Aluminum Tubing is designed for low pressure transfer of fuels providing less weight than its steel replacement while also eliminating flex normally found in a rubber or braided hose. It is not recommended for high pressure applications due to wall thickness and should be adequately supported along its length using Padded Clamps to prevent stress cracks.
Our Series 3000 Synthetic Lined Braided Stainless Steel Hose has two layers of woven stainless steel. The inner layer resists collapse while the outer protects against abrasion. It has a 500-1500 psi working pressure depending on hose size, and the inner CPFE liner is compatible with most hydrocarbon or alcohol fuels. It has a operating range of -40 to +300F and is designed to be used with Series 2000 Pro Flow Hose Ends, Series 3000 Full Flow Hose Ends and Series 3000 Direct Fit Hose Ends.
The PTFE Lined Braided Stainless Steel, commonly called teflon, lined braided hose is designed for extreme pressure applications, 1500-3000 psi working pressure. It is comprised of a PTFE liner with a woven outer braid to prevent abrasion. This hose is commonly used in brake line applications and nitrous oxide (NOS) plumbing. Recently, our supplier Fragola Performance Systems, has released new larger hose sizes to up to -10AN. Which allows almost any flexible line in a vehicle to be upgraded. It must be used with the PTFE Aluminum Hose Ends , Real Street Series Aluminum Hose Ends or the Forged Steel Hose Ends. Each hose end is reusable by replacing the brass olive seal before reassembly.
Fragola's Pushlite Hose is manufactured to the same rigorous standards as our Series 3000 Stainless Race Hose. It is perfect for heater lines,low pressure fuel lines and oil lines. It has a 250 psi working pressure and is constructed with an inner layer of synthetic PKR covered with a fiber braid reinforcement and wrapped with a weather-resistant textile cover. You can use it over standard barbed fittings or with any of the Pushlite Hose Ends. For high heat or higher-pressure applications, we recommend Pushlok Clamps.
All our hose is sold by the foot and in AN (Army/Navy)size. Which denotes the inside diameter of the hose in 16ths of an inch. For example, a -8AN hose is 8/16ths i.d. or 1/2". Make sure to select the correct hose ends for the type of hose you will be using and never mix and match brands as some hose ends are made for different brands of hose and will fail at the worst time. When measuring for hose, take into account component movement and any additional fittings that are required. If the line is going to pass by a high heat area use a protective sleeve like our Ultra Lightweight Fire Sleeve.
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