Plastic Fuel Lines, DANGER!!! Options

[ericread]

As I continue to update my 914, I was getting concerned that the plastic fuel lines in the tunnel could create a danger. Postings here indicate that they can be a serious fire problem to "don't worry, they'll be fine if they're left alone.

I went ahead and purchased the stainless steel fuel lines from CFR and set out to replace the lines on Saturday. After removing all the stuff covering up the tunnel, I inspected the existing plastic fuel lines. To my dismay, they looked pretty good. But, what the heck, I decided to complete the replacement.

Once I had puled the old lines out I took another, closer look. When I picked up the plastic line it easily cracked and broke:


And, although you can see a couple of breaks here, my finger is pointing to a number of very small cracks that are not very apparent in this picture:


The plastic was really brittle and easily cracked. Would it have broken if I had left it alone in the tunnel? Maybe not. But I am really glad I replaced the plastic line when I did.

If the fuel line was this brittle in my 74, then I would think that all of the plastic fuel lines are a potential fire hazard. Please take a few minutes to inspect your fuel lines. It may save your car, or even your life.