What is the best fuel line to hook up my Webers with?

[73911guy]

I've been using Gates rubber fuel lines with fairly new date codes and it meets the SAE J30R7 rating. But after a year, the hose clamps have bit into the hose and need retightening or else the chance of a leak seems probable. I end up replacing the hoses every two years. I'd like to go to Aeroquip braided stainless but I don't want to spend the money. Is there a better hose than the SAE J30R7 spec hose?

Thanks

Jim
'73 911 w/Webers

[911pcars]

There's quite a spread between "better than SAE J30R7 spec hose" and the best. For something low cost, you could renew your Gates (good brand) J30R7 hose, but use German Norma clamps. These clamps have a smooth ID that won't take chunks out of the hose.

If you go with an the AN-type fitting, plan to spend about $100 for fittings, hose, adapters and a fuel block (-6AN). You can source these from Summit Racing or Jegs. I recommend the neat and convenient-to-install fuel block/pressure gauge assembly from PMO. You might be attracted to the pseudo-AN fittings that feature a hidden hose clamp and stainless sheath that covers rubber hose. Other than the bling factor, there is no quantitative improvement over regular hose. It's more expensive and besides, it's only for looks.

Aeroquip sells AQP a socketless hose and fitting line which is a high quality, non-braided alternative. Comes in red and blue. However, the quantity hose pricing from the above sources actually favors the braided stuff. The socketless fittings themselves are less expensive than the full-on swivel fittings. Be aware that some AN fittings don't swivel. That is, in order to install the fitting hose and fitting, the entire hose and fitting must rotate as a unit; not convenient when its an angled fitting and the final installed position is no where near where you want the hose to point.

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

[RoninLB]

Originally posted by 73911guy

I don't want to spend the money. Is there a better hose than the SAE J30R7 spec hose?

I use a lot of marine grade fuel lines on other cars.. much better than routine automotive store stuff