Why is everyone talking about using stainless steel braided tubing going to gauges and the fuel system? Is it for looks? It sure isn't needed for the pressures we run. Inquiring minds want to know.

 

My $.02 worth... reduces the chance of it being ruptured from vibrations/rubbing coming through the firewall... BUT it does look nice too....

Dave

 

Its for looks and heavy duty durability. If its teflon inside it will have better flow characteristics then the Black hoses.

 

and just a reminder, if it's teflon, one arc to a power source and instant leak.

 

I didn't use the braided, I opted for the easy to work with black rubber hosed that was approved for diesel. The one place I where I had some concern about rubbing I took a 4 inch long left over piece and slit it and slid it over the main hose and used wire ties to hold it in place. So after about 6 mo no problems yet.

 

Ummmm.....yup!

Rusty

 

For gauges looking nice is the only reason I can see for using it.
I just use 1/8'' boost tubing pushed though a protective sheath of larger tubing.
No need for good flow characteristics or larger diameter as there is no flow, just a change of pressure.
Smaller tubing is much easier to route than SS and won't short out any electrical it might accidentally touch. Braided may also require additional fittings to make bends that tubing does without, which can be an additional leak source.

For fuel intake and return lines SS braided is the way to go.

 

One easy source for tubing is air brake tubing. One brand is Synflex. Its rated for over 150 pounds, and there are fittings for it in any size. You can get it from 1/16 to 5/8 or better. The stuff is pretty indestructable and is all over any big truck. Has teflon liner. I always used it for oil pressure gages, etc. It uses compression fitting with a sleeve that slides inside to give good clamping pressure. Never had one leak. DOT is quite particular on the air brake stuff and you will find it all over the dash and engine compartments of big trucks as well as the larger diameters feeding the brake chambers on the trucks and trailers. It is ok with oil, fuel or air. It is the fuel line system on my LN7000 Cat.

 

Does anyone know if silicone is compatible with Diesel fuel?

 

According to this silicone is not compatible with diesel.
http://www.efunda.com/designstandard...C=Diesel%20Oil

Silicone is compatible with beer though

 

Handy site, thanks.

 

Most important!!

 

oil will leak threw silicone hose.

 

Your chart brings you right back to teflon lined air brake hose, like Synflex brand. Semi-rigid and one of the first choices, cheap, tough, readily available, fittings use compresson with inner sleeves. Generally will outlast the truck while rubbing on a sharp frame edge.