Fuel line questions

[Michael Fowler]

As some of you know, I have been replacing the head gaskets in my '86 F250 6.9 C6.
So far all has gone as well as can be expected considering I am working outdoors in the worst temp/ humidity of the summer.
Heads are back on, studs have been tightened--almost all done.

Now some questions:
How long will polyethelene last as a fuel line?
My steel line form the filter head to the IP had a crack at the IP end. a very tiny crack, but enough to destroy a new rubber seal. I have installed 3/8 poly with compression fittings at each end. It works! I started up the truck for 30 seconds or so to check out the job. ( Still no radiator installed)

Has anyone used copper or steel bulk tubing to replace the oen line?

Could you use copper ( or steel) with a double flare on each end?

Any other ideas?

Still to do:
Radiator/ hoses/ coolant
Exhaust manifolds and Y pipe
Valve covers
Oil Dip stick and tube
repair tubing to oil pressure gauge--it broke
put away all the tools.


Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[Agnem]

Michael, when I built the Moosestang, I just cut the fuel line to the IP, flared it with a flare tool, and stuck a rubber hose on it with a hose clamp. My filter head is down on the frame.

 

[Michael Fowler]

Did you do a simple flare, or a double flare?

 

[Michael Fowler]

Here's a valuable time saver for anyone doing head gaskets. Remove the heads with the exhaust manifolds attached. INSTALL the heads with exhaust manifolds attached.
I pulled my heads with the manifolds on, but left them off for the reinstall. WHY?! I have no idea. I guess I thought it would be easier to reinstall the heads without that extra lump of iron.
I just spent an HOUR getting just the left side ex. manifold on. The right side looks, if anything, to be even harder. But that is the side baking in the afternoon sun, so it'll sit for a while. Installing the exhaust manifolds on the heads prior to replacing the heads takes, what, 10 minutes tops, for both.

I feel so stupid. ( not to mention dirty, greasy, hot, frustrated)