Vacuum hoses, in other words, vacuum lines, help to keep up several internal systems properly. They maintain the pressure level and give power so that each part of the car’s engine, especially ignition and braking systems, can coop better and perform consecutively. That’s why without a doubt, using improper tubes as vacuum hoses can make some mess. If so, then can you use a fuel line for the vacuum system?
It’s possible to use some quality fuel lines as vacuum hoses to create the right amount of pressure and power things like brake boosters, EVR valves, windshield wiper valves, etc. But you have to make sure the set of fuel lines you’re using in the vacuum system should be made of rubber or PTFE with the anti-collapse feature.
The two main concepts here are pressure and heat. If a fuel tube with the right diameter can take immense pressure and avoid heat absorption, then it’s okay. Otherwise, things could turn out to be very dangerous and many internal parts of your ride can get damaged instantly.
Can You or I Use a Fuel Line for Vacuum Hose? Let’s See
Let’s break the ice and go deeper into the matter.
What do we expect from the vacuum hose or line? Not to get compressed or expanded during pressure drops and rises, right?
And judging by the workflow in the engines, it wouldn’t be a crime to use something rather than dedicated vacuum hoses in certain areas (if the option can resist getting affected by the change in pressure level).
Usually, in a fuel system, you can find two types of pipes. One is for sending fuels to different parts of the vehicle, and the other is to receive from the main storage. As you can see, both of the tasks can create some tension inside the linings and the fuel lines are surely capable of handling this matter.
That’s why we think high-pressure fuel hoses or fuel lines can do a good job in the vacuuming tasks. Although vacuuming can force the shape of a normal hose to collapse, high-pressure fuel lines can handle the matter precisely and keep the connection active.
Benefits of Using Fuel Lines for Vacuum Hose
The construction of fuel hoses is a bit different from vacuum hoses. Comparatively, fuel lines have some greater advantages here. If you have the budget for a branded fuel line set, you can easily get the best materials like polytetrafluoroethylene that can last for years. Such materials are resistant to chemicals, current, and corrosion.
Besides, fuel tubes come in a reasonable price range. Even the most expensive one won’t bother your wallet that much.
- Durability
There’s no doubt that fuel lines are more durable than many other pipes and hoses. Rarely, you could find someone replacing a car’s fuel line from the fuel system within a decade of purchase. Rubber lines are corrosion-free and don’t react too much with the gas.
- Flexibility
A fuel line connects two ends by going through the gaps between several complex components. That’s why lines used in transferring fuels are pretty much flexible. Ultimately, this feature allows fuel lines to support vacuuming for quite a long time.
Why Investing in a Fuel Line for Vacuum Hose is a Profitable Return?
If you ask us, there are tons of reasons we can show you why we inspire readers in replacing vacuum hoses with fuel lines.
But you don’t have to go through all those reasons to be convinced. Here are some key reasons that can clarify your thoughts:
- Fuel lines don’t collapse from outer pressures
- They are flexible to go through any location and connect ends
- The materials don’t react against the change in heat and pressure
- Because of being flexible, the lines don’t get cracks or holes so easily; they last longer than vacuum hoses
- The connecting process of fuel lines is almost the same as vacuum tubes; nothing new here
When You Can’t Use a Fuel Line Instead of Vacuum Hose?
In some cases, replacing vacuum hoses with fuel lines might be a big mistake. Now, you might think we’re going fully against the statement that we’ve defended a while ago. Actually, it’s not like that.
We’re saying that there are some cases where only vacuum hoses can only help. For example, if your car only prefers silicone vacuum hoses, you can’t use rubber or plastic lines. Also, finding the best fuel lien made of silicone is like looking for a unicorn.
Furthermore, we’ve mentioned that fuel lines need to have the anti-collapse feature to participate in vacuum works in a vehicle. No manufacturer mentions which fuel lines are collapse resistant and which are not.
You need to test a fuel line in this matter to know whether it can resist collapse or not. If the test gives negative results, even the best fuel pipe set won’t be a good choice.
Best Fuel Line for Replacing Vacuum Hose
The fuel line as a replacement for the vacuum hose would be that option that has rubber build.
Nylon or plastic build fuel lines aren’t good in handling both pressure and vacuum collapse. Therefore, rubber lines are better than most of the hose types. The biggest advantages of rubber are:
- Electricity resistant
- Holds high-pressure joints firmly
- Less reactive to chemicals and
- Resist moisture
Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the fuel line located?
You can find your car’s fuel line between the tank and engine. Besides, you can find one along with a fuel injector in some models.
Where does the vacuum line go to?
From the intake manifold, a vacuum line can reach:
- Brake booster
- Windshield wipers
- PVC valves
- EGR valves or
- Heater control valves
What Is the Best Material for Fuel Lines?
The best material to use for making fuel lines is PTFE. But this material isn’t the right choice to use in vacuum lines or hoses.
Is Vacuum Hose Gas Resistant?
Most of the vacuum hoses aren’t gas resistant. You can find very few models that resist reacting with fuels and work as fuel hoses.
Can the Fuel Line Be Used as a Pcv Hose?
There’s no danger in using a fuel line as a PCV hose because the basic required build is the same.
What Type of Hose Is Needed for a Vacuum Booster?
11/32” hoses are required for making the booster active. Any other type won’t make it even a week and damage the braking system.
What Size Hose Clamp for 3/8’’ Fuel Line?
35/64” clamps would do the job. But remember, measure the outer diameter of a hose and buy a clamp matching the size measured every time to be fully assured.