J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Fuel Line Replacement

My fuel lines have apparently developed some cracks and now leak slightly when vibrated by the running engine. They obviously need to be replaced.

Has anyone replaced their fuel lines lately? Any recommendations for a good supplier? Also, size and type ordered? Were you able to re-use the fittings or did you just buy new ones?

Brian - are you referring to the marine rubber fuel hoses or the metal lines that run between the fuel pumps and injectors? I replaced all the original rubber hoses two years ago because they had hardened over time and were an accident waiting to happen. These hoses are many standard sizes depending on what size hose barbs were put on the ends they connect to. Best to cut off a small section, then take it to a marine supplier who can sell you the USCG approved marine grade fuel line.

The metal lines are standard Yanmar parts. Depending if you have a 2QM or 2GM, these lines will be different. If you need these lines, call Meredith at Oldport Marine and she can look in the parts list to tell you the correct part number. Check this web link: http://www.oldportmarine.com/yanmar_parts.html

Before replacing the metal lines, see if you have the "banjo" end fittings with the copper washers. You may just need a new set of washers.

It's the rubber lines. I can do as you mentioned... cut off a sample and see if I can get it replaced locally. I was just wondering if there was a solution that I hadn't thought of yet.

I actually have looked at what was available at West Marine and didn't see anything that was close to matching in stock.

Ok - The hoses on Rhapsody are 5/16" ID but, like I said there are other standard sizes I've seen too. I used to have a smaller diameter on the discharge of the Racor spin-on filter to the fuel pump. When I rehosed, I changed the barb fittings so now all the rubber fuel hoses are the same size. Remember you have 3 hoses that should be replaced - Fuel tank outlet to fuel strainer, Injector bypass return to fuel tank, and vent hose the goes to a through hull near top of transom. You also have a small section of hose from the Racor filter to the fuel pump.

I didn't realize there was a vent line. I probably would have just gotten enough line for the feed and return. Thanks!

I'll make sure that all the diameters are the same and if not, i'll look into replacing it all with one diameter. I think that would make things easier in the future.

I found that the fuel hose does crack in the engine compartment especially if the air vents are not connected right ... keep an eye on the stupid plastic wire ties as they seem to break after 20 years or so dropping the air vent line to the bottom of the engine compartment and the compartment then does get quite warm.

Vic
Vee Jay