Fuel Line - 1995 Buick LeSabre

[tken35]

Wanted to get the experts on replacing the fuel lines. I recently asked my friend to replace the fuel filter but he said that the fuel lines looked pretty rusted and thought that he would do more damage. He suggested that it would be prudent to replace these lines at this time before they get worse. This car has been well maintained and is in great shape and has less than 90,000 miles on it and my folks won't be getting rid of it anytime soon. Given the harsh winter weather and salt we use in the Midwest, I am not surprised.

A. How difficult is this job? Can anyone tell me the "actual labor time" in case they have to take it to a shop?
B. Are there any special tools required (e.g. flaring tools, GM type)?
C. What precautions are needed given that the brake lines might run along the same channels (anchors)?
D. Will the gas tank have to be dropped? If so, would it be a good idea to replace the fuel pump at this time?
E. Finally, could we use a copper nickel alloy type line (like one we used on a recent brake line replacement project)? What diameter are fuel lines?

Thank you in advance!

[maxwedge]

Most of these questions cannot be answered without seeing how bad and how far the rust extends in the fuel and brake lines. At times they can be sectioned, sometimes the tank must come down if the rust extends to the top of the tank. No copper lines in any of the under chassis lines, period. Napa makes a coated brake and fuel line that will prevent future rust issues.

[tken35]

Max,

Thank you for the reply! Not that the student should ever question the Master but, what's up with the lack of love for "copper nickel alloy" (e.g. Kunifer/Cunifer or NiCopp by AGS)? We found it to be very flexible and was easily routed without bending tools. In fact, it was one of the Napa guys who suggested that we use this on our brake line replacement. He also mentioned that this is what some high end European automakers use.

With regards GM fuel lines, is there an inexpensive tool to fabricate saginaw flares?

Thank you in advance.

[danielsatur]

Detroit, Mich

Consider putting this car on the rack, and look for more cancer!

[maxwedge]

Check with your state insp regs for brake line usage, sounds like that alloy should be ok, just remember double flares.