Fuel Return Line Peeing On Head (300SD)
 

One of my injector return lines (one of the ones running between injectors) has sprung a leak and pees fuel on the head. The leak is right at the injector. I'm pretty sure of how to fix it, but I just want to make sure before I wreck something:

Can I cut the bad section off and push the line back on? (there's definitely enough slack)

If I must replace the line, can I get the correct diameter and type of hose at the parts store or is it a special order item?

I realize I sound like a cheapskate, but this is my only car and I'm pretty well broke. Thanks in advance to any advice that can be offered!

Sure, try cutting off a bit and re-install on the nipple. If the hose is too old and dried-up and splits, then see about getting a new one. There are lots of posts in the archives about these hoses - injector return hose or leak-off hose. Fastlane has it; they sponsor this site. Buying from them helps support the site. Prices are good and delivery is often next day! Steve

Thanks! I've worked with this type of hose on my old VW vans, I just didn't know if it had any special inserts for the diesel fuel or temperatures.

You will find that weed eater fuel line is an excellent long term replacement and readily available :)

Great! I need the car to run everyday and the smoke of smouldering diesel fuel from under the hood scared the bejeezus out of me. Nice to know I can get the stuff locally. Thanks!

I tried weed eater line and it got all melty and fell off.

I just put some weed eater line on the car, and it seems to be working for now. However, when I pulled off the old line, it crumbled in my hand like bakelite!! That's really scary considering how much more of that stuff is in there.

The real stuff only costs $12 and will last for a few years. I wouldn't be surprised if the stuff that was on your engine is 10+ years old.

http://img.eautopartscatalog.com/live/E5000103594.JPG

proper line
 

I've replaced this particular fuel line on my '82 300sd, and I suggest using only the proper replacement fuel line. It fits perfect and is worth the bit of extra money. If one hose crumbled then, most likely, all the other hoses are ready to spring a leak too, so you might as well replace all of them. It's better to do that then to regret it while you're on the highway.

I tried weed-eater line, and it didn't work for me either, but maybe you have different stuff.

I would buy the real fuel line....it is made from a compound that is diesel fuel resistant.....they are also covered with a scuff resistant braid. If you watch the lines with the motor running you will notice they pulse (move). The braiding keeps them from chafing over time.
Keep some extra around... it has a perfect inside diameter to splice together broken or cracked vacuum lines.
Cheers!

I just used the yellowish green line from the autopart store that they sell as fuel line.

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I tried some cheeper stuff also.
The person at the parts counter said it was ok for diesel. :dizzy2:
I think it was vacuum line.
I needed it that day because I was leaking fuel.
It lasted for a few weeks.
But it was real spongy, and finally melted, and needed replaced.
I would suggest using the real stuff also.

just my $0.02

Thank You
RichC
:joker:

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