Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan Woodshark 1950 Fuel Lines, vent hole, tank valve

Question

Part in Question   Poulan Woodshark Chainsaw Model 1950. Fuel lines are deteriorated and need replaced. Two things fell out of the gas tank. A fuel filter and another small part made of very soft rubber that looks like it could be a one way valve. It also has some integral metal piece on it that looks like a star washer. (not entirely sure this fell out of the fuel tank). Is this part supposed to be at the end of the fuel line that returns fuel to the tank? Do I push the new line through the housing into the tank, pull the line out through the fill port of the gas tank, shove this one way looking thing on the end an then tuck it back in the tank?? It is slightly torn. Do I need a new one? What do you call this thing? Can't seem to find it on replacement parts lists. . .Thanks in advance -Matt

Answer
Parts list link:

http://www.ereplacementparts.com/poulan-1950-type-gas-chainsaw-parts-c-16962_171

The part you have is usually called a "duck-bill valve".  Like you said it is a one-way valve.  Often times they are used for a fuel tank valve allow excess fuel pressure to bleed off as necessary.  Check the fuel tank exterior to see if there are any holes for the valve to fit in.

It may go on the engine of the fuel purge line but I'd check the tank for an exterior vent hole since the duck-bill has the metal star washer looking piece.

Lots of videos on installing fuel lines.  The key is to cut a taper on the end of the fuel line...yes you will have to waste some fuel line but it is the only way to get the tight fitting fuel line through the holes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od9-PAjJY-0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrXpU70Hmi0&feature=related

http://www.ehow.com/how_7687534_install-small-engine-gas-trimmer.html

Let me know if this helps.

Eric