To use or not to use

parkerm
parkerm Expert Adviser
in HUDSON
I am reinstalling a fuel pump and it look like someone on a previous installation had used plumbers tape on the connection between the fuel line and the fitting that attaches to the pump itself.

Is it advisable to use something like that to prevent leaks?

Regards,

Marvin

Comments

  • DavidC
    DavidC Senior Contributor

    If you are referring to Teflon tape on the threaded fittings, I would not use it.  Fuel can destroy its effectiveness, and you never want to use it on post-filter fittings (I know you're not talking about that here), or pieces of it can clog the carb.  Us a thread sealant that is fuel safe, like  671570 - Russell Hose And Fitting Assembly Lube And Sealant Kit.

    Dave


  • Frankvintagefullflowcom
    Frankvintagefullflowcom Senior Contributor

    If you are referring to the inverted flare nut/fitting (the one that swivels on the steel line) the use of tape or any other sealant at that point is useless. The seal isn't effected at that point anyway, it is accomplished at the ID of the flared end where it seats on the internal, conical seat in the fitting that's threaded into the pump body. If fuel is getting past that point, look for a damaged seat or a cracked steel line. My guess is that it's just there and not doing anything.

    If you do use Teflon tape on a pipe thread in gasoline service, use the yellow, heavy stuff rated for gasoline and be cautious about trimming to keep it out of the fuel stream. My personal experience is that it works fine as long as one is careful and is sometimes necessary to take up slop in worn/expanded carb and pump threads.

    F

  • parkerm
    parkerm Expert Adviser
    I figured out why someone used Teflon tape on the inverted Flare nut/fitting. When I removed it and cleaned it up the threads on the inside where the conical seat is are buggered up. Someone cross threaded them at some point and fixed it using Teflon tape.

    I am going to try and find a new fitting with the conical seat for this fuel line.

    I already tried two NAPA stores and neither one had the exact fitting. If anyone knows where I can get one please let me know.

    Marvin
  • DavidC
    DavidC Senior Contributor
    HHhhmm, sorry NAPA didn't come through. They did for me. CARQUEST is another to look at. Lowes and HD also have a surprising number of brass fittings which may work.
  • Frankvintagefullflowcom
    Frankvintagefullflowcom Senior Contributor

    Heck, it's just an ordinary 1/8 male NPT X 1/4 female inverted flare, right? I'd hand you one but.......

    F 

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