How to Install a Braided Fuel Line

Braided fuel lines are often a good aftermarket replacement for OEM rubber fuel lines. The woven stainless steel covering of the average braided fuel line provides a higher measure of durability, while also providing aesthetic value. Braided fuel lines not only function well in most applications, but they also look good. A braided fuel line requires the use of AN fittings in order to properly connect to the fuel system's hard lines. Pre-fitted braided fuel lines will have these fittings already installed on the lines, making them ready to use right out of the box.

Things You'll Need

  • Shop towel
  • Small catch pan
  • Floor jack
  • Jack stands
  • Combination wrenches
  • Bucket
  • Teflon tape
  • Open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal cable from the battery. This will reduce the possibility of a short circuit or electric shock or.

  • Relieve pressure from the vehicle's fuel system. This is very important for fuel-injected vehicles. Locate the Schrader valve on the fuel injector rail on the engine and place a small catch pan nearby. Depress the valve to clear the pressurized fuel from the lines. When finished, remove the pan from the engine area and wipe away residual fuel with a shop towel.

  • Raise the vehicle with a floor jack to provide clearance for working underneath the vehicle. Place jack stands underneath the vehicle for support.

  • Use two combination wrenches to disconnect the existing fuel line. Hold one wrench on the nut closest to the fuel line's hard point while loosening the nut closest to the rubber fuel line with the other wrench. Allow the residual fuel in the line to drain into a bucket.

  • Wrap a small amount of Teflon tape onto the male end of the fuel line's hard point. The use of Teflon tape will help prevent leaks. Tighten the AN coupler onto the hard points using the combination wrench. Do not over-tighten the line.

  • Remove the bucket and jack stands. Lower the vehicle to the ground and reconnect the negative terminal cable to the battery. Pressurize the fuel system by turning the vehicle's ignition cylinder to the "On" position for five seconds at least three times. Start the vehicle and observe the new fuel line and fittings for any leaks.