GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Fuel Hose and Pipes Fuel Hose and Assemblies

Steel fuel lines - These are welded steel tubes, meeting GM specifications 124-M, or its equivalent. The fuel feed line is 3/8 inches diameter and the fuel return line is 5/16 inches diameter. Do not use copper or aluminum tubing to replace steel tubing. Those materials do not have satisfactory durability to withstand normal vehicle vibration.

Coupled hose - Do not repair the hoses. Replace them only as an assembly.

Uncoupled hose - Use only reinforced fuel resistant hose, made of Fluoroelastomer material. Do not use a hose within 4 inches (100 mm) of any part of the exhaust system, or within 10 inches (2154 mm) of the catalytic converter. The hoses inside diameter must match the outside diameter of the steel tubing.

Clamps - These are stainless steel, screw bank-type clamps, #2494772, or equivalent.

Steel Fuel Line Repair

  1. Cut a piece of fuel hose 4 inches (100 mm) longer than the section of line to be removed. If you remove more than 6 inches (152 mm), use a combination of steel pipe and hose. The hose length should not be more than 10 inches total.
  2. With a tube cutter, cut a section of the pipe to replace. Use the first step to form a bead on the ends of the pipe and, also, on the new section of pipe, if used.
  3. Slide the hose clamps onto the pipe and push the hose 2 inches (51 mm) onto each portion of the fuel pipe. Tighten a clamp on each side of the repair.
  4. Secure fuel line to the frame.
  5. Check for leaks.

Fuel Hose and Pipes Service Quick Connect Fittings

Removal Procedure

  1. Grasp both sides of the fitting. Twist the female connector 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt within the fitting.
  2. Caution: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air in order to prevent eye injury.

  3. Using compressed air, blow dirt out of the fitting.
  4. Choose the correct tool from J 37088-A tool set for size of the fitting. Insert the tool into the female connector, then push inward to release the locking tabs.
  5. Pull the connection apart.
  6. Notice: Use an emery cloth in order to remove rust or burrs from the fuel pipe. Use a radial motion with the fuel pipe end in order to prevent damage to the O-ring sealing surface.

  7. Use a clean shop towel in order to wipe off the male pipe end.
  8. Inspect both ends of the fitting for dirt and burrs. Clean or replace components/assemblies as required.

Notice: Use an emery cloth in order to remove rust or burrs from the fuel pipe. Use a radial motion with the fuel pipe end in order to prevent damage to the O-ring sealing surface.

    • Using a clean shop towel, wipe off the male pipe end.
    • Inspect both ends of the fitting for dirt and burrs. Clean or replace components/assemblies as required.

Installation Procedure

Caution: In order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury, before connecting fuel pipe fittings, always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends.

This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak.

During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.

  1. Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe end.
  2. Push both sides of the fitting together to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.
  3. Once installed, pull on both sides of the fitting to make sure the connection is secure.