Couple of quick Fuel Valve questions

[TDuff]

Hello:

After searching on fuel leaks and the petcock issues some have had it appears my I.S. may be leaking on the riveted side of the petcock valve.  When I pulled the tank I was getting fuel leaking on my hand as I manipulated the valve while removing the chrome selector.  Not a lot, but enough!   The fuel hose at the valve is somewhat cracked and was not very tight when I pulled the tank, but I don't believe that is where the fuel was coming from, but it needs to be replaced.  So I think I'll pull the valve, drill out the rivets and attempt to repair it per some postings I have seen here. 

Two questions - what size and type of fuel line should I use to replace the original (from an auto supply store) and when replacing the petcock valve - is there sealant of some type I need to use in the tank fitting when reinstalling the valve?

Thanks for any tips and advice!

Terry

[Dusty]

Fuel line size I can't answer but the fuel valve has an o ring that seals the fuel valve to the tank. Fuel valve can leak from a bunch of places and different repairs are required. I have drilled out  the rivets on a petcock. There are no user serviceable parts inside. If the cover is leaking it may be able to be resealed. Good luck and if you have more info on where it is actually leaking we may be able to help.

Dusty

[shadowmagic]

I'm not sure about he hose size. I had the exact same issue but chose to buy a new petcock and seal the riveted seams with jb weld. I didnt use anything when connecting it to the tank and havent had any issues at all so far, petcock related anyway lol good luck.

[Gryphon Rider]

When I pulled the tank I was getting fuel leaking on my hand as I manipulated the valve while removing the chrome selector.

Fuel leaking from where on the valve?  A bad diaphragm would have it leaking from the weep hole and/or outlet nipple if the valve isn't in the OFF position.  If only a small amount of fuel leaked (a few drips), it could just be residual fuel in the vacuum side of the valve, and not an issue at all.  Did you notice any leaking fuel before you started to pull the tank?  If not, it would be highly coincidental for a seal to start leaking as you were pulling the tank.

[TDuff]

Unfortunately I could not determine where the fuel was coming from.  The valve was turned off and the hoses were all disconnected.  I think it was just a few drops when I was wiggling the chrome switch off the rotary post while holding onto the petcock valve.  I have a diaphragm rebuild kit coming from Honda, so I planned on pulling the valve anyway.  What started all this is - since I bought the bike August 1 and brought it home the garage always smells like raw gas - badly.  But I do not see evidence of gas on the floor or pooling on the bike anywhere.  Got worried about the potential for hydrolock and ordered the diaphragm kit.  As I pulled the tank a couple of days ago I was getting fuel on my hands with the valve off.

Thanks,
Terry

[shadowmagic]

Yeah, same with me. I found that a slight variation in the angle of the switch seems to push it open enough to leak fuel. Thats why I sealed my new one with Jb weld. lets see how long it holds it up.

[TDuff]

Yeah, same with me. I found that a slight variation in the angle of the switch seems to push it open enough to leak fuel. Thats why I sealed my new one with Jb weld. lets see how long it holds it up.

Just wondering - Did you just run a bead around the perimeter, or open it up and use it inside?

[Madmike]

I use 3/8" (#6 in dash size) fuel line.  I prefer the "Marine Grade" hose, it has a heavier wall than standard automotive hose of the same ID.

Here is some discussion on the different specs. and markings as some is rated for use in engine spaces (A-15 I believe) and others isn't.

https://www.boats.com/resources/what-do-the-new-marine-fuel-hose-markings-mean/#:~:text=Marine%2Dgrade%20fuel%20hose%20is,a%20requirement%20under%20the%20regulations.&text=An%20important%20nuance%20found%20within,and%20type%20%E2%80%9CB%E2%80%9D%20hose.

[indybobm]

Be careful what you use to seal things. It could end up in your carbs. Big problem.