TOPIC:

Had some transparent Blue Fuel Line from another project. Tried using these with the stock VM26 carbs on my 77' KZ1000A. The fuel lines measure 1/4" I.D. but won't slide all the way down on the fuel T's of the carbs.? Tried lubricating both Fuel Line and Fuel T but didn't help. Line will go on just past 1st. expansion joint of fuel T, but won't continue past the 2nd. expansion joint then seat at the bottom of the fuel T.

I'm assuming that the fuel line needs to have a bigger I.D. ? What Fuel Line are you guys using?

1981 KZ650-CSR

5/16" fuel line

1/4" vac line

That's kind of what I thought Martin. Just trying to use old but new inventory.

Do you use clamps?

In desperate situations, may soften the end of the too-small tube so that it will slide completely onto the too-large nipple.

Boil 1/2 cup of tap water in the microwave, and immediately soak the tube end for a few seconds in the hot water. Remove from hot water and quickly slide it over the nipple.

Lube isn't needed.

This also works to soften old hardened fuel lines before returning them to service.

Should serve okay until new fuel lines arrive.

I prefer and use the very flexible and non-kinking grey fuel line, which is reasonably small in diameter and remains flexible for years. Unlike the clear plastic hose that looks good when new but quickly hardens and yellows.

The grey line may be available at tool rental stores, and isn't overly expensive. As these businesses seek to minimize fuel line issues on the rental equipment.

Good Fortune!

Here's a description I posted a while back. Ed

www.kzrider.com/forum/3-carburetor/59406...ne-and-filter#633243

Tygon is what I use. does't harden, easier to slip on. Here is a link.
jetsrus.com/individual_parts/009_042_su.html

Note: If the fuel line is too tight (1/4"), it's possible that a nipple could get pulled out of its orifice.
It's an easy fix if it happens, though.

I use zip ties but have been meaning to get some Moose clamps to give them a try.
They come in packages of 15 or more. Moose Racing Wire Hose Clamps

Tygon fuel line. The grey tygon hardens from fuel exposure --- it could be ethanol's fault. ???
However, it's fine for the vacuum line -- the same 1/4" vac line has been in place on my bike now for several years & is still nice n soft.

Could also use the wifes hair drier to Heat/soften up the hose
Pete

On my kz550, I used leftover rubber cloth braided fuel hose from my 1987 bmw. It fit perfectly, and was definitely a metric size, NOT imperial. I tried the "equivalent" inch size, but it was too tight on my bike.

It was 7mm if I recall correctly. Fit perfectly. 1/4 inch is a tad too small. Our bikes ARE metric built after all..

You can get metric hose online.

See my posting above. 5/16" works perfectly. Ed