how can i make fuel line fit

[Blueman]

Its about that time that I should replace my fuel lines.  Other than from a dealer, does anyone know a good place online to buy the fuel lines?

[robfriedenberger]

Go to your local hardware store get about 5ft of fuel grade hose, should only cost you $10, I forgot the size but just a bring a bit with you


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[Blueman]

So I have an 07 f and I bought 1/4 ID tygon fuel line but I'm having a hell of a time trying to get it to fit to the petcock. I've tried hot water and it doesn't seem to help. Should I have gone with 5/16 ID?

[Golly]

1/4 fits..little smidge of oil and it slips on easy as....saying this I've just got 5/16 new stuff from my dealer

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[GS4me]

I usually use a tiny bit of dish soap on the inside of the end of the hose (or on the petcock / fitting I'm trying to put it on).  Dish soap is nice and "slick" but it disappears pretty quick when the hose is installed.  (some oils stay slick for a little while and the hose can come off if there is movement / pulling - even with a clamp - but that being said, I've used Olive oil, cooking oil etc with no real problems over the years as well).

[Blueman]

I can't even seem to start it. If I could just get it around the beginning, then I'm sure I could slide it up

[fetor56]

Squeeze the hose over something larger & tapered(like a hole punch) to stretch the ID,a little heat(hair drier/hot water) also helps.....quickly transfer it to where u want it.Use lubricant if possible.

[robfriedenberger]

I think Im running 5/16", not 100% sure but it is larger than 1/4", the tank is kinda of a PITA the first time but its easy after that.

[GS4me]

I can't even seem to start it. If I could just get it around the beginning, then I'm sure I could slide it up

Did  you maybe buy Fuel Injection Hose (as opposed to regular fuel line hose)?  Some of that F.I. Hose can be very rigid and the inner part is sometimes very firm / (sometimes has an inner blue layer that can be tough as well).  Just thinking out loud.  I too used the 5/16" but usually 1/4" will slip over with a little "nudge"...  Could be just the brand you bought may just be a little smaller.

One other tip that works: If you have a center punch (the tapered kind) - I usually use the one that starts out about 1/8" on the end and tapers up to about 3/8".  You can put some oil / soap on the punch, heat the hose with a hair dryer and work the punch into the hose to expand it. Pull it off while it's still warm and put in on the fitting you need it to be on.

However, If you're still having an issue after that, you may want to just go get some 5/16".  No sense "boogering up" the inside of the 1/4" so bad that you are weakening the "string / mesh jacket" inside or the rubber.  No sense having a leak in a few week / months.

EDIT to say:  Great tip Fetor56.  I left my reply 1/2 typed when I got something to eat and saw your reply after I posted....  great minds think alike!