I just got a new factory fuel line (tank to fuel pump) for a 1955 Ford Club Sedan. I "thought" I could just simply remove the old one and install by jacking up the driver's side and having at it. Now that I looked at it though,,, it seems the original line was installed in the factory BEFORE the body was placed on the frame... am I right?

Can this pre-bent line be installed without lifting up the body?

Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com

I can't be certain for your car; however I considered changing out the fuel line on a 55 TBird and determined exactly what you are experiencing. That is, unless you cut and splice the line it can't be done without lifting the body. After seeing the situation from under my car, I was able to confirm by reading a couple things I found on the Internet.

I looked under my 56 and saw the same thing. I feel there are 2 options.
1. Cut the new line on the inside of the frame and use a sealing ring style coupling. That will be out of the way.
2. Cut the line near the tank and use a flex line similar to the one frame the line to the fuel pump. That way will need a double flare tool and extra fittings.
Good Luck.

56 Vic, B'Ville 200 MPH Club Member, So Cal.

Daniel: You described the new line as being factory? Or is it from an aftermarket outfit like say Stainless Steel brake?  Your not the first to run into this problem. The new lines are often advertised as being exact replacement... but they don't fit unless used in a "body off" installation & often that is not said when advertised..  


Paul

Paul,
If you check my blog in the This and That section you will see that I finished up installed the line. I acquired it from TeeBird products in Pennsylvania. It was a factory duplicate and when pulled the old line off the car I checked the factory bends and lengths with the duplicate - spot on. It is a very nice line, and it even duplicated the factory insulation where the bends come near, or rest upon, a part of the frame. I highly recommend TeeBird for that item.


Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com