Hardline Question

[TnBlkC230WZ]

I'm looking at purchasing 3/8 inch 304 stainless tubing from an on-line metals dealer for fuel line. What gauge should I look for? They have .02, .024, and .035. I will want to AN flare it or install tube adapters and it needs to hold up to 50 - 60 PSI. Is Aluminum line ok for fuel injection?

[parsonsj]

.035 wall is what I've always used. .028 is fine too. I don't know about .024 wall, but in SS it's fine.

Aluminum is ideal for fuel injection: it flares easily, bends easily. I use .035 wall stuff there too. I avoid the coils of Summit brand (a 300x alloy) garbage, and buy straight stock from McMaster-Carr (5052-O).

jp

[TnBlkC230WZ]

.035 wall is what I've always used. .028 is fine too. I don't know about .024 wall, but in SS it's fine.

Aluminum is ideal for fuel injection: it flares easily, bends easily. I use .035 wall stuff there too. I avoid the coils of Summit brand (a 300x alloy) garbage, and buy straight stock from McMaster-Carr (5052 alloy).

jp

Thanks, I'll look for the aluminum. Is 6061-T6 ok?

[Jim Nilsen]

Thanks, I'll look for the aluminum. Is 6061-T6 ok?

NO, it is too hard to work with and will crack.

[parsonsj]

Tn, you're right. I'm using 6061-T6 tube. I fixed my post.

I've had one flare crack, and I've done many many flares. I've never had any other crack or similar failure using that alloy. Just keep in mind I'm talking about 37* AN flares. The answer might be different for bubble, 45*, or double flares.

jp

[CarlC]

Also check you local metal supply store and Parker / hydraulic store. They may have what you are looking for.

When the wall gets too thin the tube will collapse during bending. I've had no problems with the heavier gauges (0.034".)

[TnBlkC230WZ]

Tn, you're right. I'm using 6061-T6 tube. I fixed my post.

I've had one flare crack, and I've done many many flares. I've never had any other crack or similar failure using that alloy. Just keep in mind I'm talking about 37* AN flares. The answer might be different for bubble, 45*, or double flares.

jp

According to McMaster Carr, the 6061-T6 .028 wall is rated to 1389 PSI so that should work. It is rated for gas and is hardened.

Jim,
Compression fittings are recommended on 6061 so that is what I'll use. The 5052 looks cool. It is supper corrosion resistant, but it is soft. I'd worry about abraision in a daily driver.

[parsonsj]

I take it back (again)! Sorry for the misdirects.

I use 5052-O for my aluminum hardlines.

I'm using 6061 for my fuel vents.

[TnBlkC230WZ]

Is the 5052 easier to bend than the 6061? I can't find the yield strenght on it. It probably is best to stay with the .035 wall. I'm looking at the metal stores. McMaster Carr only carries 6' lengths. I need 2 eight foot pieces to get from front to rear.

Have you noticed any wear or abraision on 5052?

[parsonsj]

Fully annealed 5052 is better for bending and flaring than 6061, especially 6061-T6.

What do you mean by "wear" ? Nothing rubs against them... how would they "wear"?

jp

[Yelcamino]

If you guys are looking for quality stainless tubing for fuel lines, I found a great place to buy from... Pure Choice Motorsports.

They also have the tools needed to complete the job if you don't already have them.

[JohnUlaszek]

I have had very good luck with Pure Choice over the years, and consider it a go-to when I have a plumbing question.

[parsonsj]

Yep. Pure Choice is the choice for sure.

[TnBlkC230WZ]

Fully annealed 5052 is better for bending and flaring than 6061, especially 6061-T6.

What do you mean by "wear" ? Nothing rubs against them... how would they "wear"?

jp

I was worried about it rubbing against the frame or something. Good clamps should fix that. The 5052-0 seams to be the way to go. Excellent corrossion and fatigue resistance.

Thanks for the help guys.

[parsonsj]

OK, I see. Yes, clamp your tubes. They should never ever move.

jp

[RatMalibu]

5052-0 in 12' lengths here, and it says they'll roll it for shipping if you want
http://www.airpartsinc.com/products/...num-tubing.htm

[TnBlkC230WZ]

I wished I would have seen that sooner.

[steinepstein]

Does anyone have experience using the hard line to AN adapter fittings that Summit or Jegs sell? They use a brass ferrule that crimps the fitting to the line.

Thanks.

[TnBlkC230WZ]

Does anyone have experience using the hard line to AN adapter fittings that Summit or Jegs sell? They use a brass ferrule that crimps the fitting to the line.

Thanks.

I've used one Summit adapter on my stainless return line. I've just purchased a bunch now that I'm redoing everything for fuel injection. I know other people use them instead of flaring.

[1badchevelle]

I've used one Summit adapter on my stainless return line. I've just purchased a bunch now that I'm redoing everything for fuel injection. I know other people use them instead of flaring.

do you have pics, and how did if work out? any issues?