Can I use in-tank fuel line externally?

[Zagando]

I have some new in-tank fuel line left over from the internal renovation of my gas tank last summer.

My current (external) lines are OK but I've heard a number of horror stories about K-bike fuel lines deteriorating and leaking. Better safe than sorry (or worse).

Can I use this new in-tank line for the external lines successfully? :ear

Yes, I know I could always buy new fuel lines on my next trip to town but hate to let this hose already on hand go to waste if it may suffice instead.

[toddlamp]

Good question. I don't see why not seeing as how the in tank fuel lines are being soaked in a caustic liquid. I would like to know if there is any specific external fuel like I need to use. What size is it; 1/4"? I have some left over transparent fuel and i'd like to replace it because, like you, I am worried about sudden failure and bursting into flames isn't on the agenda.

[Bobmws]

The internal rated fuel line will work fine for external lines.

toddlamp, you need to use fuel injection pressure rated hose for your external fuel lines. Spec is 8mm, which is pretty close to 5/16". Also best to use fuel injection type hose clamps, the ones with the solid band pulled together with a nut & bolt.

I've seen them at the local Autozone store, but seem to recall they were pretty reasonable at the dealer.

[Zagando]

Thanks for the good news, Bob---much appreciated!:whistle

[98lee]

The two lines to the tank have nice location specific nice tight bends molded into them. Straight line will work (sorta). Your call.

The line from the fuel rail to the regulator is bulk straight line (no problem).



:dance:dance:dance

[Zagando]

Aha! Thanks for pointing this out, Lee. I'll probably give the new lines a try but still order some new OEM lines from Chicago in that case. Maybe finally get some good quick-disconnects while I'm at it, too.

[toddlamp]

Aha! Thanks for pointing this out, Lee. I'll probably give the new lines a try but still order some new OEM lines from Chicago in that case. Maybe finally get some good quick-disconnects while I'm at it, too.

Let me know how it goes. I'm gonna have to do it soon myself

[98lee]

Maybe finally get some good quick-disconnects while I'm at it, too.

Stay away from the plastic ones.



:dance:dance:dance

[Zagando]

Oh, yeah, it's stainless steel in that department, for sure.:whistle

I see that Beemerboneyard has some nice ones, too.

[toddlamp]

what benefits do the quick connects give you?

[mieczkow]

I put a couple of (expensive) quick disconnects on my K75S a while back - when I was generally refurbishing all the rubber lines and pieces, etc. I bought a pair on line for about $80 (yup, expensive) but they are heavy duty stainless steel - really high quality.

The advantage (which I have experienced more than once!) is the less-than-5 minutes it then requires to remove the tank entirely from the bike without pulling off hose ends - which tend to get stretched after a while. There is so much stuff under the tank that I felt if was worth it to make quick access in spite of the the cost. A couple of time when I've had roadside "issues" I have been very grateful that I was able to literally "pop off" the tank in a minute with no risk of fuel spilling, etc. So I don't think there is a down side to having disconnects, except good ones cost a lot of money.

[Zagando]

Thanks for answering Todd's question, Tom---I just remembered that I needed to respond as I was way too busy the other day when it was posted.

Another nice feature of Q-Ds is not having to empty the tank or relieve the fuel pressure beforehand.

[toddlamp]

Yeah thanks Tom. That makes perfect sense! I have run plenty of wiring under there and needed to use a trash can to prop the tank up. Boy, having a few disconnects installed would have save me a ton of time and trouble. I'm sold!

Now what is the correct type/style to get and from where?

[mieczkow]

Here is one set from Beemer Boneyard - but if you do a web search you will find many sources. These are the type I used - stainless with vitron o-rings, etc.

http://www.beemerboneyard.com/cpcqkdiscon.html

As I said, I think it is worth the cost and effort to install them. Makes servicing anything involving the tank much, much more pleasant and convenient.

[toddlamp]

Here is one set from Beemer Boneyard - but if you do a web search you will find many sources. These are the type I used - stainless with vitron o-rings, etc.

http://www.beemerboneyard.com/cpcqkdiscon.html

As I said, I think it is worth the cost and effort to install them. Makes servicing anything involving the tank much, much more pleasant and convenient.

Where along the length of the line should these be installed?

[mieczkow]

They install sort of "sensibly". Take a look at the two lines which are leading down from the left side of your tank. You can splice them into the lines along that length. The ideal spot may vary somewhat from bike model to bike model. Mine is a K75S so I have a bit of fairing to take into account. What I did was bought the disconnects, held them up along the fuel lines and "eyeballed" a good spot. When I get home tonight I'll take a picture and post it on this thread to sho you where mine are located.

:whistle