[s-cars] Flaring Fuel Line Problems

[Kirby Smith]

Sean Douglas wrote:
> The fuel line saga continues...
> 
> I picked up a metric ISO flaring tool and have been practicing on some
> spare tubing, but I'm finding it very difficult to get a good flare. 
> 
> I read all the tips on tube flaring from various sources;
> 
> - cut square with hacksaw as I've heard that a wheel cutter hardens the
> tube
> - debur inside and outside of tube
> 
> The main problem is that when cranking down the screw, the tube is
> pushed out by the force. I've tightened the wing nuts with a wrench as
> tight as they will go, but it does not seem to have enough clamping
> force to prevent the tube from slipping.
> 
> The flaring tool is not best quality, but seems to be the basic standard
> out there. Its identical to the one pictured here
> http://www.awrtools.com/CategoryDisplay.asp?Category=80&PriceType=1
> (about a third of the way down).
> 
> Would a better quality tool be the best advice here? Any sources for a
> decent tool? Or am I stuck buying new lines from the dealer for $400?
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Sean Douglas
> 
Is this flaring setup designed for the tube diameter you are using.  As 
I recall the fuel lines on our cars are metric and just a few thousanths 
smaller than the counterpart SAE English sized tubing.  If the clamp 
portion of the kit is not ground enough between the two parts that hold 
the tube, it will slip.  Also, these parts need sharp grooves to hold 
the tubing.  Maybe if you gound it a bit it would be better.

kirby