Fuel Line Replacement

[David W.]

I have been reading another post regarding fuel line replacement on a C-3 without lifting the body. I too am attempting this and need all the help I can get. All bolts and clips are out cleanly but getting the new lines in looks like it will be quite an adventure. If these things were in about 3 sections, this job would be a snap!
This is on a 1980 4-speed car. I have removed the transmission, trans-crossmember and fuel tank.

Thanks for any advice,
David

[Michael G.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

David, I have just completed the left side (vapor & long brake line) on my 71 with body on. My 4 speed trans crossmember is welded on and this was the main obsticle as the lines run through the crossmember. I am not familiar with the changes after 1973, but I would imagine they are few when it comes to the running of the fuel and brake lines. You will have to bend the lines somewhat and then straighten after you have snaked the path. Since I needed to thread them through the openings of my stationary crossmember, I started by working it up over the frame rail above the rear wheel. This has a sharp bend where it goes vertical in front of rear wheel. Very tricky but possible. Take your time and try different approaches. Then I made a wide coil of the front section so I could thread it through the crossmember without kinking. I believe the new clips and fasteners were harder to set than the lines. Make sure you are in the right state of mind when you go at it, otherwise you WILL be ordering another replacement line. Good luck, It is possible. Mike

[Chuck R.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Mike's got it right Dave, You'll be fudging the lines all over the place to get them packed into the frame pockets where they need to go.

It can be done, but by not giving yourself the added room by not lifting the body away frome the frame, it will be a tough haul.

You will have to place sweeping bends in the lines (I'll assume your talking both a feed and vapor return line) at some point.

I think I would attempt to bring the lines in from the fuel tank pocket as a first attempt. I'd rather be trying to strighten out the long straight runs of the lines as opposed to messing with those sharply kinked areas.

As Mike says, it's one of those patience and finess jobs Dave, good luck with it.

Chuck

[David W.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Thanks guys for the hope that it will work. In the 1980 model the transmission crossmember is bolt in. It has been removed along with the gas tank. I have no obstacles underneath...engine, trans, exhaust all removed earlier. The old lines are still in place (clips and screws out so its loose) so I am going to try getting them out as practice. I figure if I can get these out without destroying them, I have a chance and maybe an entrance/exit route.

Regards, David

[Alan S.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Hi Michael,
I'm pleased to read of your success so far.
You mention the importance of being in the 'right frame of mind' to approach the job. Are there certain things that a person should be eating or drinking that might contribute to attaining that 'frame of mind'? I have an 'Old Grandad' that I sometimes visit with AFTER that kind of job.
Regards,
Alan

[Michael G.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

David, You hit on a very important factor I forgot to mention. Getting the old lines out in one piece will be the best teacher of the install process. After you have it set in it's path, start to set the clips loosly. They will be helpful in the final straitening of any bends that you needed to make.

Hey Alan, I had to stop and walk away for a moment during this install. Honestly, I'm not sure if tapping into some liguid enthusiasm would be helpful. Maybe. I haven't had my patience tested like that in a long time. The feeling of accomplishment is awesome and worth the effort.
Mike

[David W.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Alan,

I have 3 Vettes that I am currently working on. Your Grandad and I have become well aquainted! This fuel line change might have us dining for breakfast together if it does not go well.

Happy Motoring,
David

[Alan S.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Hi David,
I would think that certain articles of the Geneva Convention prohibit working on 3 cars at once.
What years and all yours?
Regards,
Alan

[David W.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Alan,

I am legally incompetent so Geneva and her rules don't apply here. I do have 3 Vettes and a Trans-Am in various stages. All are personal projects.
1980 Corvette Claret/doeskin 4-speed (this is the car all my recent questions have been regarding) great car, great frame, untouched other than paint
1980 Corvette Black/Red 4-speed (stock L-48 but great frame and body)
1993 Corvette Black/black 6-speed (93' zr-1 wheels but otherwise original )
1980 Trans Am. This is a 301 automatic car I am converting to a 455 4-speed car. What can I say...Too much Smoky and the Bandit!

Regards,
David

[Joseph K.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

David,

I hope that the fuel line replacement on your car is easier than a 69. I could not get the tubes up and around the front of the back tire area. In the end I pulled the body off. It will definitely be a test of patience.

[David W.]

Re: Fuel Line Replacement

Joseph,

Thanks. I have everything loose and on the 1980 model the transmission crossmember is a bolt in and this has been removed. I have a clear path but this is still going to be a challenge.

Regards,
David