how to change fuel hoses of your car
Money is scarce for most of us right now. We cut back where we can – going to the movies less often, eating at home, and buying a few things we don’t need. We can also postpone the repair of some vehicles until we can get it, although this is not always good because it can compromise our safety and our ability to move around.. This article is about how to change fuel hoses of your car. The process is easier that you might think yet it is very important.
For example, take your car’s fuel lines – aka fuel lines – these are the plastic, metal or plastic pipes through which the fuel flows from the fuel tank, where the fuel is stored at the fuel pump.
From there, fuel is injected into the combustion chamber of the engine through the fuel injector or carburetor.
It is not difficult to find out that your fuel is not compatible. If the line is old, cracked or broken, it needs immediate repair.
Otherwise, your car may leak fuel or have problems getting it to the engine.
If you notice that your fuel is leaking from the door or you are constantly boiling fuel, it could be a fuel line problem.
A certified auto mechanic should always properly diagnose your car’s problems. Ideally, it should also be repaired by a professional contractor.
However, if you have the right tools, know your way around a car, and have the right replacement parts, sometimes you can repair the car yourself.
Replacing a broken or damaged fuel line is one of those jobs where a little elbow grease can save you from paying for expensive repairs at the repair shop.
Tools needed to replace fuel hoses
Make sure you gather the right tools to get the job done. Make sure you gather the right tools to get the job done.
Replacing your fuel line will take time and patience, and it may require getting under the car. It will also require the right tools for the job.
First, buy replacement oil hoses.
These can be purchased online or at auto repair shops, but they are not very expensive. It’s important to buy the right hoses for your car – auto shops and online stores will tell you exactly what to buy based on your car’s make, model and year.
You’ll also need to purchase fuel hose clamps, reinforced metal rings to hold hoses in place and prevent leaks. If you’ve never had your car’s fuel tank replaced, now is a good time to do so.
The tools involved include
- screwdrivers,
- screwdrivers,
- knives, jacks,
- jack stands,
- lock picks and of course,
- safes.
Remember that you will be working with gasoline, so some precautions are necessary.
Always work in a ventilated area to avoid gas fumes, remember to use a fire extinguisher and do not handle flammable materials.
Since this is a messy job, you’ll also need clothes you’re not afraid to get dirty and maybe eye protection, in case gasoline splashes in your face.
You’ll need a cloth for cleaning, and it’s not a bad idea to put a cloth under you – a sheet you can throw away when you’re done.
Once you’ve gathered the tools, it’s time to prepare your car for the new oil line. Preparing your car for a fuel chain change
Now is the time to prepare for the fuel change
- You will need to get under the car for this part of the job, so start by raising the car safely using jacks and securing it using jack stands.
- Never climb under a vehicle that is only supported by a jack.
- Once you’re under the hood, locate your fuel line and fuel filter.
- The filter is most likely in the engine compartment under the hood, but it can also be in the back of the car near the gas tank.
- The fuel filter is a solid, cylindrical piece and the fuel lines are tubes that go into it.
- If you’re not sure what you’re looking at is your fuel filter, it might be a good idea to consult your car’s service manual or ask a car mechanic to check it for you. .
- This next step is very important – you need to release pressure on your fuel system.
- Most cars today use fuel injection, which sprays fuel into the combustion chamber at high pressure. If you don’t release this pressure when you start removing the fuel line and filter, the fuel will spray everywhere.
- To reduce fuel pressure, you will need to locate your car’s fuse box.
- Using another manual, locate the fuel pump fuse or relay. Start the car and, while the engine is running, remove the fuse (or relay).
- If you do it right, the engine will shut down in seconds and the oil system will be depressed.
- Finally, to avoid the risk of electric shock when working on the fuel line, disconnect and isolate the negative end of your car’s battery.
Also, it’s not a bad idea to change the fuel filter while you’re at it. You can learn how to do it here.
Removes old fuel hoses
Now that your car is ready for this process, it’s time to remove the old fuel line.
Go back under the car, locate the oil filter and remove the plastic shield around it.
Place a pan or a towel under the filter in case the gas leaks – and it probably will – (no one said that car maintenance is a clean job).
Using a screwdriver or wrench, loosen the zip ties until they bounce back and forth.
Next, keep your pan or your finger down so the fuel can drain from the hose.
Once the fastener is released, you will be able to remove the fuel line.
Otherwise, you can use a knife to loosen it if necessary.
Now find and remove the other end of the old fuel. You will be able to remove it with little effort.
Again, it’s best to consult your vehicle’s service manual for information and advice on removing your fuel line. Remember that every car is different. For example, an older Toyota will have a different fuel outlet than a newer Porsche. Ford cars are different from General Motors cars, etc.
There may be more than one fuel line to remove, so make sure you know what you’re removing.
Also be careful not to remove anything you shouldn’t, and damage the fuel pump or fuel filter in the process.
Adding new fuel hoses
Now that your car’s fuel line has been removed, it’s time to install the new line. Also, if you bought a new fuel filter, now is a good time to do this job.
Place the new hose clamp over the new fuel line, but loosen the hose clamp now.
Make sure that the tool will be facing you when the line looks like it will be easy to close the things.
Next, slide the open end of the fuel line into place and check that it fits.
Of course, the fuel line won’t work if it’s too short, but you also want to make sure the line isn’t too long.
If there are kinks or bends in the line, the fuel may not flow properly.
If it’s too long, pull it out and use your knife to trim a small part of the end until it fits perfectly.
Once the new socks are the right length, use your screwdriver to tighten the clamp until it’s smooth. And that’s all!
The new fuel hoses have been installed, but there are still a few steps to follow before you can drive again.
First, you’ll need to connect the negative terminal of your car battery, then click the ignition switch by turning the fuel oil fuse in your car’s fuse box.
Then start the engine.
It may take a few minutes for the fuel to come out of the system again, but if you’ve done everything right, the engine should be running again.
Check your work for any fuel leaks while the car is running and if you find a leak, turn off the car and fix it immediately – don’t forget all the previous safety precautions, of course.