will fuel eat away brake hose?

[waqas]

Ok, silly question time.

Last week, I needed a small section of fuel hose (8mm) for the return line to the fuel tank. In a pinch, I used a length of new brake-rated braided bulk hose I had leftover from another project (it was 8mm metric ID and was the perfect size).

My question is this: will this hose sustain any damage from the fuel, or is it by default built to withstand more? (due to the brake-rating)
I'm just being lazy and hoping to avoid having to replace it.

[Benz Dr.]

Waqas?
Are you saying that gas is leaking on to your brake hose? Many types of rubber will swell or soften when hit with oil, trans fluid, grease and gas/diesel.

I think I'd change it if looks at all messed. They're only about 20 bucks.

 

  '' Your need to stop is greater than your need to go. ''

[wwheeler]

Waqas,

I would ditch the brake hose you are using for a fuel hose quickly!

From what I know (and just looked up to confirm), rubber brake parts are made from either SBR or EPDM elastomers (EPDM more common now). Both of those do poorly with mineral based oils and fuels (includes gasoline). Brake fluid is not mineral based but either glycol or silicone based. You should notice some swelling with in a week. It is possible that the brake hose could have a teflon liner (very expensive) in which case it would be OK. I wouldn't chance it though.

[waqas]

Guys, thanks for the replies.

I just came in from replacing them with some "fuel-injection" rated hose from the local auto store. I bit the bullet and partially drained the tank so I could replace the hoses without taking a fuel bath!

Of course given the current temperature in Austin of 95F (and rising), I ended up drenched anyway 

Ahh, summertime...