Author Topic: Hose ID?  (Read 2805 times)

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Chrisboden

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Hose ID?
« on: May 18, 2005, 08:22:30 PM »
Ok, I've heard tell of this interesting clear fuel line and that I can get it at a generic auto parts store.

I want to replace the hoses on my bike (75-550), but I want to make sure I get the right sizes. Length isn't important (I'll cut to fit), but two of the hoses I'm replacing aren't even ON the bike currently, and one of them was replaced by the PO with something that is obviously the wrong size.

What are the ID's (Inside Diameter's, prefereably in inches, though I can solve for metric) of the following?

The fuel feeds from the petcock to the carbs (x2)

Carb drain lines (x4)

Battery vent line (x1, perhaps 2?), though I imagine this one I have to figure out on my own since it's likely not a standard size.

Will fuel rated hose work for battery vapours (there's a long way between long-chain hydrocarbon resistance to Hyrogen gas/H2SO4 vapour).

Is there a brand name I should look for to find the clear tubing? I *really* don't want to screw up and eat through a fuel line...dumping lots of gas on a hot engine between my legs while in a 55Mph forced draft could ruin my whole weekend and I have a fierce allergy to pain.

Dr.Duck

Offline dusterdude

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #1 on: May 19, 2005, 05:36:05 AM »
my k1 uses 1/4 inch line
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Offline chippyfive50

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #2 on: May 19, 2005, 11:34:57 AM »
I have used the clear tubing in the past, and it is cool to see the gas and the rust deposits, but after a year, all the line I have used is as hard as a woodpeckers lips, and begins to leak. I went back to the factory stuff w/clear fuel filters to see the flow, and am pleased. The quality is much better, and I even bought the factory cinch clips from Honda for the details. I believe it was 3/16 ID...
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Offline TwoTired

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #3 on: May 19, 2005, 01:06:39 PM »
Yeah, that clear stuff looks awsome.  I've used it too.  Hardened up really fast.  I was dissappointed.  I could not find the stuff in metric sizes and used clamps to make it seal.  Cracked and leaked anyway.

I was never happy with the fit of hoses in the common english sizes I could find.  The bikes were designed for metric parts.  But, if you can find 7/32 I.D. fuel line, it will work on the carb fuel inlets.  5/32 fuel hose should work okay on the vent and overflow nipples.  15/32 ought to stay on properly for the engine breather application.

I went to the Honda dealer and got the correct stuff and haven't had to replaced it yet.  I bought it by the foot (or was it by the meter) and they just measured it off their bulk reel for me.  Below are numbers I gleaned from my microfiche.  I think they are right.  But, the scratches on my old film make some guesswork a reality.

fuel inlet hose 5.3x280 
I.D. 5.3 or 5.5mm
bulk hose 95001-55008-40M - honda code 0358687

carb over flow hose  (listed as a four tube assembly.  But, I'm sure I made mine up from the carb vent hose below)

carb vent hose 3.5x330 
I.D. 3.5mm
bulk 95001-35330-40M  honda code 02924333

engine breather hose  12x420
 bulk 95005-12003-10M
Lloyd... (SOHC4 #11 Original Mail List)
72 500, 74 550, 75 550K, 75 550F, 76 550F, 77 550F X2, 78 550K, 77 750F X2, 78 750F, 79CX500, 85 700SC, GL1100

Those that learn from history are doomed to repeat it by those that don't learn from history.

Offline Jonesy

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #4 on: May 19, 2005, 01:54:49 PM »
The clear vinyl tubing most folks use is not meant for contact with gasoline, hence the hardening. There is a semi-clear (yellowish) color hose called TYGON (trade name) that is commonly found at small engine shops for replacing the fuel lines on weedwackers. At least you can see if fuel is moving through it or not, and it won't harden up like vinyl.
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Offline cb650

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #5 on: May 19, 2005, 03:10:38 PM »
Metric and standard line is pretty close.    7MM and 1/4 inch are only around .010 " diff.   5/16 and (cant remember right now)  is even closer.  Use both fractional on my 650s with just a spring clamp and is fine.   The other half has that clear line on her hardly. I have replaced it once and it needs it again. But dont help as it is roughted right between the cyls. 




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Chrisboden

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #6 on: May 19, 2005, 04:02:52 PM »
Actually I may just bite the bullet and go see the Honda dealer (not a fun experience in this town) and get the bulk hose.

Though I think a pair of those clear inline filters would be a good idea :)

Thanks guys!

Offline Dennis

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #7 on: May 19, 2005, 07:49:08 PM »
Those equivalants are all fine if you are using larger sizes, however many of the bikes people have (like the 500, 550 and 750) use 5 or 5.5 mm hose. Actually 7/32" is close enough, but you just can't find it anymore.
Next time I need fuel line I'm going to try a lawn equipment repair shop.
If you have a contact in the medical equipment or lab equipment field maybe they could help you source some Tygon!

RSV12K

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #8 on: May 24, 2005, 06:47:08 AM »
Geez, when I asked this question a couple of weeks ago, I got jack for a response, and based on what I'm reading here, that's a good thing. You can buy clear tubing (in different colors, no less) meant for gasoline. Tygon is as easily found as a cold... Take a look at Dennis Kirk or Chapparel to start.

Offline TwoTired

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Re: Hose ID?
« Reply #9 on: May 24, 2005, 11:37:15 AM »
There is a difference between clear plastic's ability to withstand the effects of gasoline, IE will it dissolve in a couple of days, and it's long term stability as a plastic, ie will it harden up in time.

I bought clear plastic tubing clearly labeled for gasoline use and in a year it had hardened to the point where it wouldn't release from the barbs on the petcock nipples without a great deal of prying.   The flexibility was 25% of that when new.  And, hose clamps were REQUIRED to get the hoses sealed back on the nipples.  The following year, the tubing broke off during the attemp at removal from the petcock.  Any deflection of the tubing resulted in a clean break.  On the bright side, it was still mostly clear, and it didn't dissolve in gasoline.

On the other hand I observe that the black tubing Honda used, while clearly not as flexible as new, still seals onto the petcock nipples WITHOUT any clamp whatsoever, and is still flexible enough for safe use.  Though, it is starting split at the ends after 30 tears.

I'm currently using tygon in my model airplanes.  I only have two years experience with this type.  It is still functional, but I think it, too, is hardening.  I expect to replace it all in the next year.  I haven't found a light weight alternative, yet.

There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of formula for plastics.   But, package labeling is designed for marketing and sales of product.  And, all too often, has little or no bearing on the quality of the product.

I wish you luck with your choices,
Lloyd... (SOHC4 #11 Original Mail List)
72 500, 74 550, 75 550K, 75 550F, 76 550F, 77 550F X2, 78 550K, 77 750F X2, 78 750F, 79CX500, 85 700SC, GL1100

Those that learn from history are doomed to repeat it by those that don't learn from history.