Test fuel line connections

[Michael C.]

Is there a way to test fuel line connections - flare as well as rubber hose/spring clamps without running the car? I've just replaced the fuel pump, carb filter, in-line filter and rubber hoses at the pump and in-line filter. It'll be a while before i can start the car and I'd like to avoid fuel leaks at that point. 69 L36.
Thanks
Mike

[Richard M.]

Re: Test fuel line connections

Mike, Using regulated compressed air like plumbers use to test their work.

Plug one end and attach a air hose to the other end with a pressure gauge and a shutoff gate valve just after the air input.

Apply about 10 PSI to the line. Shut the gate valve.

Observe the gauge for pressure drop over a few hours. If it holds pressure.... Test passed.

The only caveat is if the spring clamps can hold the pressure. They were designed to hold joints at hard lines to hoses when fuel is drawn via suction by the fuel pump.

Rich
P.S. What made me think of this was when we did a addition. PVC was going under poured concrete. My plumber pressurized the lines soon after he glued everything. I questioned the glue cure time before test pressure. He said it'll be fine and left. This was a Friday and the pour was set for Monday morning.

20 minutes later, one joint blew open. I called him up and he had to come back and fix it, which he did.

I told him to go and I'll wait a few hours and pressurize the lines again. It held all weekend and the pour was done.

All still good.

Rich

[Michael C.]

[Richard M.]

Re: Test fuel line connections

Mike, Good idea, see if it holds vacuum, but it may collapse the hoses. Give it a try and let us know if it works.

Rich