What Size Should My Fuel Return Line Be?

Published by Clayton Newton on

The Fuel Return Line should be at least the same size, or one size larger than the supply. Make sure there are no sharp bends or kinks. The return line should direct fuel close to the bottom of the tank and away from the pickup.

Can a fuel return line be too big?

Fuel line diameter matters A LOT! A larger diameter is generally better, but the correct diameter is the best choice. If the diameter is too small: you won’t be able to support your horsepower goal. If the diameter is too big: the lines will take longer to pressurize.

What diameter fuel line should I use?

Recommended Size, Based on Horsepower

Recommended Fuel Line Size (from the tank to the pump)
Engine Output Size (inches) Size (AN)
350 hp or less 5/16 in. -5
350-450 hp 3/8 in. -6
450-650 hp 1/2 in. -8

Does fuel line size affect fuel pressure?

Every fuel line experiences pressure loss depending on fuel line length, and fuel flow rate.

Does a fuel system need a return line?

Setting up fuel lines for fuel injection.
That’s because almost all fuel injection systems require higher fuel pressures than a carbureted system, and most also require a fuel return line, not often found on a carbureted vehicle.

Can you use rubber hose for fuel return line?

Standard rubber vacuum or heater hose should never be used in fuel applications. The hose will deteriorate from the inside out and can plug fuel filters and carburetors with rubber debris, long before it springs an external leak.

How much pressure is in a fuel return line?

No matter what operating condition (short of demanding more fuel than the pump can supply), pressure in the rail will always be 58psi (or pretty close).

How much horsepower can 3/8 fuel line support?

A 3/8”id fuel line can easily support 600 HP given sufficient “pump head”! Given a big enough pump a 3/8” steel line could support 1000 HP.

Is braided fuel line better?

Braided hose provides better heat dissipation and better flow, which is important when choosing performance car parts. Additionally, braided lines are able to withstand more pressure than rubber lines.

Can PEX be used for fuel line?

PEX is a relatively uncommon material for in-home gas lines, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be used. It is more commonly used for external underground gas lines that deliver large amounts of gas to serve a whole neighborhood.

How much pressure can 3/8 fuel line?

Working Pressure: 300psi.

What are the symptoms of not enough fuel pressure?

Decreased Fuel Pressure
Low fuel pressure can lead to engine misfires, low acceleration, rough idles, and engine stalls. If your check engine light is on and your car has been stalling out, you may have a fuel pump failure. Bring your vehicle to HEART Certified Auto Care and let us take a look at that pump.

What PSI should my fuel pressure be?

Fuel pressure for most vehicles should stay in a 5- to 10-psi range.

What kind of tubing do you need for a fuel line?

PTFE Lined Hose is the best soft hose you can use and generally has a braided stainless or braided nylon exterior. The PTFE liner blocks fuel vapors and slows the degradation process. PTFE Braided Hoses require Special Fittings.

Can you use clear PVC tubing for fuel line?

In terms of safety, plastic has a larger space between chemicals than rubber, so when a gas with small molecules such as liquefied petroleum gas is transported in a plastic hose, the gas molecules may penetrate through the hose. Such a leak is dangerous, and so plastic hoses may not be used for fuel gas.

Can PVC tubing be used for fuel line?

Multi-purpose hose for use on return fuel lines, PCV and EEC systems, and for fuel return hose connections on diesel fuel injection systems. Approved for use with leaded and unleaded petrol, diesel and petrol blends of ethanol (E85), methanol and ethers (up to the legal limits allowed by the EPA).

What causes a return fuel line to leak?

If the fuel return hose becomes excessively worn or damaged, it may cause fuel leaks. A leaking fuel return hose may produce drips or puddles of fuel underneath the vehicle, as well as a noticeably strong fuel odor.

How long should a fuel line hold pressure?

For the specification we must consult service-data, but the system should hold some pressure for about five-minutes.

Why is the fuel pressure regulator on the return line?

A return-style regulator offers a few benefits over Blocking Regulators: The regulator reacts faster to changes in engine load. It supplies more consistent and accurate fuel pressure. This reduces Lean Condition spikes.

Does length of fuel line matter?

Does size really matter when it comes to fuel lines? According to the fuel delivery system experts at Fuelab, it does. It’s because fuel line size and length have a direct effect on the amount of fuel pressure drop your fuel system will experience.

What size fuel line do I need for 1000 HP?

For instance, an 8AN feed line and 6AN return line on a 1000 horsepower gasoline or race gas powered LS with 30psi is sufficient.

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