Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Source for steel fuel lines?

[DaveN]

In the process of replacing my injector pump, I noticed that the fuel line from the bottom of the filter housing to the injector pump was getting pretty rusty. When I called the dealer, they wanted $150 for a new one.



Anyone know of another place where you can get these - or does anyone have a good used one? I thought that was pretty ridiculous.....

 

[Fishin Guide]

In the process of replacing my injector pump, I noticed that the fuel line from the bottom of the filter housing to the injector pump was getting pretty rusty. When I called the dealer, they wanted $150 for a new one.



Anyone know of another place where you can get these - or does anyone have a good used one? I thought that was pretty ridiculous.....

Personally, I would elimante it. Adapt to pushlok, stainless or whatever flavor of diesel rated hose you like.



Much more economical and can handle all that vibrating. In addition, easy to service or replace if neccessary. I have changed all my fuel lines and now just keep a long length beneath the rear seat in case of emergency.



Dave

 

[lsenus]

Get rid of those stock lines, I just did. They are much too small and restrictive. I believe the filter to VP line is like . 25" ID. Vulcan Performance has a replacement line for that segment for abour $45, or the entire system with LP relocation for around $130. 00

 

[SKneeland]

take some measurements then go to your local hydraulic shop. have them make some nice hoses with crimped on ends and AN fittings to replace the stock lines & banjo fittings

 

[rperker]

steel brake lines are cheep easy to install

 

[turbo torque]

I agree, replace witk 1/2" rubber and AN barbed fittings.



If you really want the stock steel line, PM me and I'll send you mine that I replaced with 1/2" rubber. Just pay shipping.

 

[lsenus]

Stock steel vs. 1/2" rubber. 'Nough said.



#ad

 

[NoSeeUm]

I agree, replace witk 1/2" rubber and AN barbed fittings.



If you really want the stock steel line, PM me and I'll send you mine that I replaced with 1/2" rubber. Just pay shipping.

Do still have the LP mounted on engine? I was wondering if the LP had any tendency to pull so hard that a rubber suction line would collapse?



Jim

 

[Fishin Guide]

Do still have the LP mounted on engine? I was wondering if the LP had any tendency to pull so hard that a rubber suction line would collapse?



Jim

I am also running -8.



Dave

 

[lsenus]

I just finished the LP relocaton back to the frame rail. Remember, pumps pump better than they suck, otherwise they would be called "sucks. "

The stock fuel line actually has a plastic section that runs from the LP inlet steel tube down to the frame rail, where it picks up the steel line again. This area is covered by a rubber outer sheath between the frame rail and LP inlet fitting.

I would also think that if the pump can collapse a rubber line, then the plastic line would also get collapsed. This would also suggest to me that there is some serious restriction in the line between the fuel pickup in the tank and the LP inlet.

 

[NoSeeUm]

I just finished the LP relocaton back to the frame rail. Remember, pumps pump better than they suck, otherwise they would be called "sucks. "

The stock fuel line actually has a plastic section that runs from the LP inlet steel tube down to the frame rail, where it picks up the steel line again. This area is covered by a rubber outer sheath between the frame rail and LP inlet fitting.

I would also think that if the pump can collapse a rubber line, then the plastic line would also get collapsed. This would also suggest to me that there is some serious restriction in the line between the fuel pickup in the tank and the LP inlet.

Plastic line would seem to be more resistant to collapsing than rubber line under vacuum IMO. It would just depend on how stiff the rubber is and how soft it gets when heated.



I had just been wondering about that. I am collecting parts to put a mechancial 12 valve LP on my truck and I am expecting it to move more fuel than an electric.



Thanks for the clarification of names regarding Pumps vs Sucks. I have a much greater understanding of the whole thing now.



Jim

 

[lsenus]

The plastic line is actuall heat shrinked onto the metal lines. This is thin stuff, not like a rigid ABS plastic or anything, but very flexible. Made me sick to my stomach when I saw that for just the reason of colapsing when under heavy draw.

 

[NoSeeUm]

So I am still confused.



With the LP in the stock location?



Option 1

Replace the stock steel lines with 1/2" rubber (AKA Vulcan Big Line Kit)

Will not collapse the rubber lines



Option 2

Replace the stock steel lines with 3/8" -6 AN (or better 1/2" -8 AN) SS tubing



I am expecting the 12 valve mechanical LP to pull pretty hard.



Thanks;

Jim

 

[Fishin Guide]

So I am still confused.



With the LP in the stock location?



Option 1

Replace the stock steel lines with 1/2" rubber (AKA Vulcan Big Line Kit)

Will not collapse the rubber lines



Option 2

Replace the stock steel lines with 3/8" -6 AN (or better 1/2" -8 AN) SS tubing



I am expecting the 12 valve mechanical LP to pull pretty hard.



Thanks;

Jim

Either method will work. In fact, you can use 3/8" rubber and it will be just fine.



The biggest thing is that the factory module just has so many restrictions in it. I should have modded mine from the very begining. I think I could have saved a half dozen lift pumps.



BTW, I used to be able to pull my WOT pressure down to 22psi with the stock fuel system and the mechanical pump. With the upgraded lines, I cannot pull it below 35-37 psi at WOT, TST on 9, Smarty on 9. So, needless to say, I eliminated a few restrictions.



Call Eric at Vulcan. I have a prototype unit that I was testing with. The production pieces will be of the same high quality he does everything with.



But, to answer the basic question. you do not "need" -8. -6 flows plenty of fuel and more than your truck can consume. It won't collapse if you do the tank mod I did.



I was burying a vacuum gauge at idle with the stock fuel system. That 12V pump is a super sucker!



Dave