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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: PCC on May 30, 2010, 08:39:36 AM

Title: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: PCC on May 30, 2010, 08:39:36 AM
I have removed the factory A/C system from my bus, and now I want to know if I can use the plumbing that used to move the refrigerant, to run diesel fuel through (after purging the lines, of course).
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: muddog16 on May 30, 2010, 09:11:28 AM
You, know it doesn't cost much to buy copper tubing at Lowe's, the ac/lines would probably be to large with to many items in those lines, valves, filters, etc.   Are you running lines for a heater or generator?  Have you traced those lines back to where you are headed?   Being copper they would work, but I'm not sure I'd do it!   Not unless I knew exactly where and what they actually fed before! This probably needs way more discussion!
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: PCC on May 30, 2010, 09:24:44 AM
I kow they are huge lines (additional fuel capacity?), and I know that they are both metal and rubber, but they must be well sealed, because they MUST not leak, or the A/C would never have worked.

All the control valves were placed at the evaporator connection points, so the lines are clean runs from end to end. What I want to do is install lines for a second (extra) fuel tank, and they just happen to end right where I need to run the lines to.

Maybe I could run a small line inside the larger existing A/C line, using it as a conduit for the smaller (new) fuel line??

I need 'alls ideas !!
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: muddog16 on May 30, 2010, 09:28:33 AM
Well, they are probably all silver soddered, if they are clean and straight you have two choices, use them either for the lines or pushing new lines through.......that's your decision, pushing them through would allow them to move around or vibrate without being supported, just another item to think about....vibration can cause leaks or breaks!
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: luvrbus on May 30, 2010, 09:43:45 AM
You don't want to use refrigeration cooper for fuel line the stuff is weird sized .Use a good automotive type cooper flexible and fitting easy to come by stay away from stick cooper for fuel lines it will come back to bite you

good luck
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: Len Silva on May 30, 2010, 10:08:50 AM
I would say to use the A/C lines as a conduit and use DOT brake tubing for your fuel lines.  Very tough stuff.
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: BG6 on May 30, 2010, 11:00:37 AM
I would say use the aircon lines as a sheath for rubber or plastic.  Avoid copper -- it stiffens as it gets flexed, leading to cracks.
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: James77MCI8 on May 30, 2010, 06:27:38 PM
And yes the A/C lines did leak
Title: Re: Fuel Lines using A/C Pipes?
Post by: PCC on May 30, 2010, 06:33:04 PM
I shall scrap that idea - Thank you for the input - Always good advice here.