Does anybody know a local source for clear fuel tubing like the kind that comes in the kits? Auto parts places, and small engine places only seem to have black fuel hose. Will clear vinyl tubing from a hardware store hold up?
I don't know if Checker/O Reily's auto parts stores are in your area. They have 3/16 and 1/4" I.D. clear fuel tubing in a section for lawnmower parts.
I'm not sure about aquarium tubing. It might not be gasoline compatible.
Model airplane fuel tubing will work but you'll have trouble finding it large enough. 5/32" and 3/16" I.D. is about as large as most hobby shops will carry.
Tom
Aquarium tubing I believe is vinyl? That will not be fuel compatible.
From here:.. Tubing: Teflon Tubing, Silicone Tubing, Poly Tubing, Vinyl Tubing Vinyl tubing is a clear flexible tubing providing an economical means of fluid transfer in a variety of applications. Intermittent exposure to hydrocarbons, such as gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel, etc. will cause premature hardening and failure of the tubing.
So fish tanks tubes will work, just not for very long. That actually explains a few things from my child hood when I helped my dad cobble together his old snowmobile. We used vinyl fuel lines (he was a plumber so it was on hand). We always thought it had carb problems, but it may actually have been the fuel lines.
How much do you need? I'll send you clear tubing at no cost except for shipping cost. I use left over peritoneal dialysis tubing that is clear and has worked for me for past 6 years with no issues.
I got my hands on some medical tubbing from a hospital that look like it will work. Ill try to put some submerged in gas to see if it holds up. I wanted clear tubbing so I can see when the fuel is flowing.
Try Canadian Tire, They sell it in the automotive section. Its usually about 4-5 bucks for a few meters. It comes in a clear plastic bag. Its so cheap and convenient for other applications I use it for everything. ie. Fuel Lines, Siphons etc. It comes in a few different sizes too.