This is one of the most bizzare things I have ever seen as an amateur car guy: Several years ago I replaced my brake fluid reservoirs and the rubber lines that run to the master cylinder. I used 1/4 inch fuel line. Today I notice that BOTH rubber lines have bulges in them, like they were failing from within, like the brake fluid was dissolving the rubber away. Remember, these lines are under no pressure whatsoever--they're just feed lines. Anyone ever heard of this? If fuel hose is no good, what DO you use?
I happened to recall that E-type Jags use a remote reservoir, so I called XK's Unlimited and got some from them. 15" for $20 plus $8 shipping (!)
EPDM is the type of hose . The Germans have made it in blue for decades and should be available at any German parts house. I have heard it is also available at McMaster Carr. Fuel, water and brake fluid hose are all distinctly different and are not interchangeable.
I just confirmed this exact question with one of my suppliers... Wurth. Their cloth braided fuel hose is compatible with brake fluids. I use two sizes, 5mm and 7mm, and both are fine. I also just had to replace some plain rubber fuel hose that someobody else fitted on a 308 fuel pump just 2 years ago... depsite being clearly marked as fuel hose, it had deteriorated dangerously.
Accordind to both Dayco and Gates from conversations I had directly with their product departments in the USA fuel and brake fluid hose are very different compounds and are not compatible. Brake fluid requires EPDM hose which is clearly marked on all Ferrari brake reservoir hose and was the subject of a large recall several years ago. EPDM is not compatible with gasoline.
I'll get a technical analysis from Wurth to clear it up for here, because I was suspicious too... edit... in the mean time, I'll do what the aboriginals do in the bush... use washing solution..... Image Unavailable, Please Login
