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TNGW1500SE's avatar
TNGW1500SE
Explorer
Apr 29, 2018

Fuel line heads up

Just a heads up: My generator on my 2004 Sonova 30B was having issues getting fuel so I bought a pump and a filter. When I went to replace it, I found that the fuel line from the tank was all cracked up. If you have this old of RV, you may want to have a look at your fuel line to the generator. Mine was about 4 foot long and cracked from end to end. I think it was sucking air. It could have caused a fire. I had to pull the tank to replace it since it went into the top of the tank. That was a pain!!!! Just a heads up.
  • JoeH's avatar
    JoeH
    Explorer III
    I had similar issues in the past.... I would recommend going to a marine supply store and getting marine quality hose. It is much better made , but will cost a lot more per foot. But, when you are sealing with 4-5 feet and the pain of installing it, it's well worth the extra $$'s over automotive hose.
  • We have had similar problems so we try to check the line annually.
  • We had a similar problem with our generator fuel line sucking air last year, but fortunately the cracking was only at a bend where it connected to the fuel pump. I was able to cut it back a few inches and we were back in business until I had an opportunity to replace the entire line. I did not have to drop the fuel tank on our F53 chassis since there was enough clearance above it to reach the generator pickup tube fitting.
  • Keep in mind especially older rigs were pre-alcohol gas. The current stuff eats the lines. Be sure to replace with something like viton that is alcohol resistant.

    Good luck!
  • Not sure on "installed" generators, but most small engines use 1/4" ID fuel line. The problem is, the typical 1/4" ID "rubber" fuel line you get at an auto parts store is about 5/8" OD but the "rubber" fuel line you get at a small engine repair shop is 1/2" OD. As long as you are replacing the clamps also and you have no very tight spots, this should not be an issue.
  • That is a fairly common problem with older coaches. Glad you got it fixed.
    Bill