Can copper plumbing tubing be used as fuel line? | FerrariChat
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Can copper plumbing tubing be used as fuel line?

Discussion in 'Porsche' started by bpu699, May 3, 2007.

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  1. bpu699

    bpu699 F1 World Champ
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    #1 bpu699, May 3, 2007
    I know, I know...you probably think I just became a hillbilly :). Bare with me.

    I am doing a rolling restoration on a 914. The car has lots of old plastic 5/8's or so fuel line. The Line is used where ever the line passes through bulkheads/firewalls/etc.

    I can't find plastic fuel line. I bought stainless steel line, and bending it is an absolute pain. I figured if plastic was OK, copper should be fine. I can also paint it to prevent a galvanic reaction should it come in contact with steel/iron.

    Would this work? Any reason why not?
     
  2. Kjell

    Kjell Karting

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    #2 Kjell, May 3, 2007
  3. t walgamuth

    t walgamuth Formula Junior

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    #3 t walgamuth, May 3, 2007
    copper is too soft. it will fracture under the vibration of an engine. i have used sections for vac lines but you don't want to use it for fuel because of obvious problems if it fractures there.

    steel is what you want. galvanized.

    tom w
     
  4. smg2

    smg2 F1 World Champ
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    #4 smg2, May 3, 2007
    not a good idea, non-ferrous metals work harden and will crack over time. stainless a real pain to bend or steel, however any water in the lines will rust it out. the other option which can be pricey is earls/russel fittings. they have bulkhead ones and then you just switch back over to barb or hose ends.

    for the odd stuff give a call to Jim at Mesa Performance or check the website. he knows his stuff and could most likely get what you need.
     
  5. -FROG-

    -FROG- Formula Junior
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    #5 -FROG-, May 4, 2007
    Also, copper is the best conductor for heat, so it may get hotter faster? Just throwing that out there, but not sure if it's valid....
     
  6. bpu699

    bpu699 F1 World Champ
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    #6 bpu699, May 6, 2007
    Alright, I got some SS lines and used those. Needed to get some tube benders and a tool set for flaring the ends, but it looks great :) .

    Thanx
     

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