clear fuel line - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Jordan G · #1 10-01-2007, 08:42 AM

Bad weekend for the 240d....one step forward, two steps back.

I finally had the time to replace my old, leaking primer pump......all seemed well, until I started tightening everything back up.....and a slow steady drip appeared. I must have nicked the clear line (running up into the spin-on filter) with my wrench head or something and put a hole in it. The problem went away when I pinched off the line

.

My question is this.....where can I find replacement lines? I couldn't find anything on Fastlane. Could I just use similar diameter rubber fuel hose and clamp on? Right now...the clear line isn't "clamped"...just snugly fit on a hose barb at each end.

The only good thing that happened, is that forum member, KAdams4458, is hooking me up with an old hazard/flasher switch to troubleshoot mine.....so I suppose the weekend wasn't completely lost.

And the Phillies are in the playoffs

Stevo · #2 10-01-2007, 09:09 AM

For the clear hose I have used the stuff from the hardware store with no problem. Its been on there for the past fife years.

Biodiesel300TD · #3 10-01-2007, 10:09 AM

If you cut off the nylon line, but leave the cut off end on the barb 5/16" hose will fit over it quite nicely.

KAdams4458 · #4 10-01-2007, 10:15 AM

Stevo, is this the large diameter line that what runs between the IP and the spin-on filter? I've been contemplating these lines, since they are the only lines I have not found a replacement for. I want to keep them clear, for the obvious reason of being able to see air bubbles. Do you remember what the line is originally intended for, so I don't look like a complete doofus when I wander in to the hardware store asking for clear hose? I can't just wander in to a hardware store knowing less than the employees do about what you're looking for. It's hard enough finding the right stuff when I do know what I'm after.

Jordan G, I'm right there with you. Over the next few days I have to rebuild a vacuum pump, change lower control arm bushings, finish up the dash wiring, and install a new primer pump as well. I'm certain that I will find more items in need of repair along the way, since things have a habit of snapping off of this car, or just seem to have been assembled with only half of the intended parts. Just keep pluggin' at it. They get better little by little. I'm happy to be able to help a fellow DIY'er out.

dwoloz · #5 10-01-2007, 10:19 AM

Clear? Mine are brown

Jordan G · #6 10-01-2007, 10:38 AM

Thanks everybody.....yes, mine are clear, sort of

Biodiesel300TD - I like your idea (although it WOULD be nice to have clear lines) because I have a whole roll of 5/16" left from changing the other lines. I was worried about the connection - but you're right, I'll just leave the nylon on. I suppose you'll see a bubble in your prefilter from everything back.....but you won't know if you're primer pump is introducing air (unless it leaks).

KAdams4458 · #7 10-01-2007, 10:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dwoloz

Clear? Mine are brown

I'll see your brown, and raise you some brittleness. If I touch them, they will crack.

Diesel Dan · #8 10-01-2007, 10:58 AM

Several different types of clear fuel line can be had at: www.mcmaster.com

charmalu · #9 10-01-2007, 11:34 AM

I just replaced one of mine last week. the one from the top of the filter to the IP. the one the cigar hose, Injector return line hook to, the three way hook up.
If your lines are brown and hard, time to replace. If you don`t have to move them around, loosen them what ever I think you are on borrowed time until failure. mine snaped off like a pretzel. most of these lines have been on 20 yrs and more.
I went to three local indy shops thinking they would have maybe bulk plastic line. no luck. told it is a dealer item. sooo ordered the darn thing.
$40.00. ordered on Fri, got it on Tues.
I was amazed at how flexable the new one is

.
Old rubber and old plastic doesn`t last for ever.

If you can find the right Dia. line. heat up the barb push on the line, when it cools, a tight fit.

My two cents worth.

Charlie

neptune · #10 10-01-2007, 11:43 AM

We replaced all three of the large diameter brown/clear lines on the 77 240D over the past six months or so. I think total cost was around $60-70 at the dealer. The two large diameter ones were much cheaper, it was the return line from injectors and fuel filter head that was expensive (the one charmalu mentioned).
Someone in the past had cut off the clear lines and fit braided rudder line over the return from fuel filter head, which had sprung a rather sizeable leak. We could have replaced it with more rubber line, but it just seemed like a half-way solution to me. The others were replaced because the dealer kept getting the wrong hoses and I figured for $10 why not?

Graminal95 · #11 10-01-2007, 11:54 AM

I've used nylon air brake hose, it stands up to fuel fine and the pressure np. I think it was 5/16 brake hose.

Stevo · #12 10-01-2007, 02:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KAdams4458

Stevo, is this the large diameter line that what runs between the IP and the spin-on filter? I've been contemplating these lines, since they are the only lines I have not found a replacement for. I want to keep them clear, for the obvious reason of being able to see air bubbles. Do you remember what the line is originally intended for, so I don't look like a complete doofus when I wander in to the hardware store asking for clear hose? I can't just wander in to a hardware store knowing less than the employees do about what you're looking for. It's hard enough finding the right stuff when I do know what I'm after.

Ok, the clear plastic hose I'm talking about comes in many diameters and is found in the plumbing section on reels and you cut off what you need. I use it for clutch/brake bleeding as well as fuel hose. Cant remember what size 5/16, 1/4, its cheap. All the hardware & good lumber stores around here have it. NOT for return lose

dwoloz · #13 10-01-2007, 06:57 PM

What's the verdict on inside diameter of this line?

Stevo · #14 10-01-2007, 07:33 PM

You could probably get a good idea with a tape measure, like I sad, It's not spendy, you only need a small amount, take a chance

tangofox007 · #15 10-01-2007, 08:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by charmalu

I went to three local indy shops thinking they would have maybe bulk plastic line. no luck. told it is a dealer item. sooo ordered the darn thing.
$40.00.

I found the fuel pump to filter housing line (with end fittings) for $8.19 from an internet parts vendor.