Fuel line options for EFI conversion?

[downl50]

I have a 427 SBC, ~550hp going into a '70 Chevelle, planning on using a repro tank with either Aeromotive or Vaporworx 5th Gen pump. I'm planning on using the Holley Sniper EFI though haven't seen a ton of feedback on it yet.

Holley Sniper a reasonable option for this application?


What are recommended options for fuel line?
Option 1: stock 3/8 pre-bent and adapting 6AN on either end (Classic tube or inline tubing)
Option 2: Late model OEM nylon http://www.techafx.com/content/6-flatwrap-ss-braided-teflon%C2%AE-hose-20-length
Option 3: Holley kit with vapor guard hose: https://www.holley.com/products/plumbing_an_fittings_and_hose/hose/vapor_guard_hose/
Option 4: custom bend some stainless steel

It seems #3 would the easiest, $200 including a pump I wouldn't need but also looking for a durable long-term solution.


Thanks!

[dhutton]

I used 1 and Vapor Guard hose on the ends FWIW.

Don

[jdbr1]

Im usein the fiitech setup had a 100 rebate,$995 - 100 rebate, tanks inc efi tank was $210, bolt in pump $210 +sender plan on using fragola premade steel braids PTFE line ordered through Jegs

[XLexusTech]

PTFE I used Fragola

[downl50]

Thanks for the feedback -- any raw fuel smell with the braided lines?

[dhutton]

Thanks for the feedback -- any raw fuel smell with the braided lines?

You need carbon impregnated PTFE lines to avoid the fuel smell.

Don

[oleyeller]

I went with option #1. One piece back to front, no joints no leaks, and it fits. Two 37 degree flares and off you go.

[camrat68]

Inline Tube can put FI ends on their pre-bent stainless lines also if you want. At least they did for me.

Jim

[andrewb70]

Option #1 and use PTFE for the short flexible runs on either end. Here is how you mate AN fittings to hardline.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46hFmkTGGV8

Andrew

[CarlC]

If a stock stainless tube + PTFE flexible ends are used no additional filters are needed for the VaporWorx setup.

I agree with the use of the stock hardlines for ease of installation. Sometimes the hard part is straightening out the bend from shipping.

[TheJDMan]

I also used the stock hard line and installed AN ends on it. But if you are running a proper return system you will need to run a second line. I used Aeroquip AQP line and have had no fuel smell in the two years since install. I actually use the hard line as the return and the new AQP line is my supply.

[downl50]

Awesome,thanks for all the feedback! I've heard aluminum is easy to work with but not ideal for street cars due to longevity. Others have said it lasts plenty long enough -- any thoughts on this?

[downl50]

Awesome,thanks for all the feedback! I've heard aluminum is easy to work with but not ideal for street cars due to longevity. Others have said it lasts plenty long enough -- any thoughts on this?

This may be the answer: http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Aluminum-Fuel-Line-3-8-Inch-OD,1633.html
"The main issue when dealing with aluminum tubing (or any aluminum for that matter) is that it “work hardens” when it flexes, which can lead to cracks. It is important that the hard line is isolated from vibration and movement.

Clamp the tubing securely with rubber coated clamps (Adel clamps) and use bulkhead fittings where the tubing attaches to the flex line. Never run the tubing directly to the engine without a flexible hose section. If installed properly, aluminum tubing is safe and durable."

[Jk918]

Can u hook the hard line straight to the flex line, without flaring it or incorporating AN feelings? Looking to use Mostly hard line with flex at carb and tank, have short pieces of efi flex hose & efi hose clamps and wasn't sure if hard line would need some type of flare to prevent leaks?

[andrewb70]

So you have a low pressure carbureted fuel system?

Andrew

[Jk918]

So you have a low pressure carbureted fuel system?

Andrew

No actually in process of switching to FItech on my SBC, was hoping I could use the stock hard line with short pieces of efi line and efi clamps at the tank and FI unit, and not have the additional expense of AN fittings. Basically looking to hook up the short efi hose with clamps but wasn't sure if pressure of efi pump would be to much for clamps vs AN fittings

[TheJDMan]

Can u hook the hard line straight to the flex line, without flaring it or incorporating AN feelings? Looking to use Mostly hard line with flex at carb and tank, have short pieces of efi flex hose & efi hose clamps and wasn't sure if hard line would need some type of flare to prevent leaks?

I suppose you could just slide the hose over the line and clamp it but it would look like crap. I would use these AN to tube compression fittings then use a normal AN hose to connect the ends.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/fra-892006bl/overview/

[Jk918]

I suppose you could just slide the hose over the line and clamp it but it would look like crap. I would use these AN to tube compression fittings then use a normal AN hose to connect the ends.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/fra-892006bl/overview/

Thanks that looks like it would fit my needs

[Kenova]

Option #1 and use PTFE for the short flexible runs on either end. Here is how you mate AN fittings to hardline.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46hFmkTGGV8

Andrew

X 2!
I used aluminum line and Fragola PTFE line on my Nova. Next time I have to do a long run of hard line I think I'll give the NiCop line a try.
That nifty little tool that Andrew demonstrated is a hand full of Aces. I have one and it doesn't stay in the garage. When it's not in use it has a special spot in my basement storeroom. Some tools are just that special. LOL

Ken

[67 455 Bird ragtop]

I suppose you could just slide the hose over the line and clamp it but it would look like crap. I would use these AN to tube compression fittings then use a normal AN hose to connect the ends.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/fra-892006bl/overview/

WIll these work with Steel, alum, or stainless ??

[andrewb70]

WIll these work with Steel, alum, or stainless ??

Probably...although Swegelok (SP) makes really nice stainless compression fittings. I would use those.

Andrew

[ULTM8Z]

I've been running PTFE front to back for going on 10 years now. Never one problem.

[cdrod]

Downl50:
Some '70 A-body cars have a 2-piece fuel line the connects with a short section of rubber hose at the passenger side body mount (see pics). This section of hose should at the very least be upgraded to a barrier-type hose, or replaced with braided or something that can handle the ~60psi pressure from an EFI fuel pump. To minimize connections (i.e. possible leak points) I'm planning to use a compression fitting at this point and run -6AN brained line through the frame rail all the way to the throttle body.
140225140226

[Tsunami]

Used 3/8 Nicop supply and return fuel lines on my 40 Ford build. great product to work with!

[WildCherry66]

Used 3/8 Nicop supply and return fuel lines on my 40 Ford build. great product to work with!

I have Nicopp that I plan to use for my pressure and return lines. What kind of fittings are those in the last photo? I was planning on using Earl’s VaporGuard hose and barb to 1/4 NPT fittings with their stainless band clamps to connect to my tank bulkhead, in and out of my inline filter and to my Sniper EFI to allow some flex.

[andrewb70]

I have Nicopp that I plan to use for my pressure and return lines. What kind of fittings are those in the last photo? I was planning on using Earl’s VaporGuard hose and barb to 1/4 NPT fittings with their stainless band clamps to connect to my tank bulkhead, in and out of my inline filter and to my Sniper EFI to allow some flex.

Chris,

I made a video a while ago that goes through all the details of using NiCopp lines and AN fittings:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46hFmkTGGV8&t=2s

Andrew

[Tsunami]

I used 3/8 Nicop for the fuel supply and return lines. The fittings are:
Russell 66575 #6 Tube nut
Russell 660651 Endura -AN6 Tube Sleeve
Russell 660353 Union Adapters (-AN6 to -AN6)

Hope this helps

[Alponcho]

Up to what HP will factory 3/8" lines work? My plan was to run a single 3/8" pre-bent hard line (with added AN fittings) but have been told I need 1/2" for my application (Pontiac 535, Fast EZ EFI 2.0, Rick's tank, ZL1 pump, Vaporworx).

[andrewb70]

550-600hp at the crank.

[max69chevelle]

Expensive but I used PTFE lines and fittings from Pegasus Racing. The bend radius is great on them.

[Alponcho]

The selection of 1/2" Nicopp lines seems pretty limited...any recommendations for a good source/brand?

[KCR]

Alponcho I just got done running this line https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-220220-25 and was really pleased. I used this on the ends https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-2200078b/overview/ and then got all the rest of the fittings and PTFE hose from Frozen Boosted.http://www.frozenboost.com/stainless-steel-teflon-fuel-lines/?osCsid=93607e686d345864b0fb7d4151d406e9

[badazz81z28]

Up to what HP will factory 3/8" lines work? My plan was to run a single 3/8" pre-bent hard line (with added AN fittings) but have been told I need 1/2" for my application (Pontiac 535, Fast EZ EFI 2.0, Rick's tank, ZL1 pump, Vaporworx).


I run 3/8" with the vaporworks and ZL1 pump...LS 427/ 550 RWHP. No issues and I was living at 7000rpms at the road course. I think you need some massive power to require 1/2" fuel lines...The engine doesnt require that much fuel for normal driving.

BTW....The ZL1 pump has a 3/8" outlet.