I just finished rounding off the (brass plated?) nut that attaches the steel fuel line to the carb., once again. (repro assembly, likely made in China). Will now require vice-grip to remove/install it. I had heard somewhere that teflon tape NOT recommended for fuel line fittings, so a lot of torque was required to avoid gas leak when carb. last installed (two years). It was like the damn thing was welded in place! Would welcome suggestions so I don't ruin the next replacement nut/fuel line assembly (LockTite, anti-seize, putty, etc.?)

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Dan ,  a number of years ago i had the same problem ,  i have used the teflon tape and never had a problem  with gas line fittings  again   !!...................Sam

56 victoria

If its an inverted flare or a compression fitting teflon or any other kind of sealant should not be used as the threads on the fitting are not what seals. Tape is ok on pipe fittings, just make sure that the tape does not go further than the 2nd thread from the end.

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

The use of tubing wrenches minimizes the rounding of the nuts on the fuel fittings.  If the nuts have already been previously rounded, then a tubing wrench may or may not be much help at that point.  Total agreement on not using teflon tape at any inverted flare fittings.  Small pieces of this invaribly end up in the needle seat at the carb and promotes flooding issues.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

Ted,



You get what you pay for. Since I did not expect to use them much, I bought puny, cheapo/asian tubing wrenches (said "drop forged"). Any torque at all, and the jaws spread (and round off the nut).



While the flare does the fuel sealing (not the threads) on the line fitting, I may start using a tiny amount of Teflon dope anyway, merely as a thread lube to avoid a repeat of yesterdays' fiasco. Better wrenches are also in order!

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Make sure it has a good flare. A proper flare should not require a lot of torque to seal. Have a look inside the fitting on the carb to make sure that the mating surface has not been damaged. I have seen a few instances where the tubing was not quite lined up with the female portion of the flare which requires excessive torque for it to seal and causes it to cut into the mating surface. If you think you are having to get it tighter than necessary to seal, stop and find out why.


Lawrenceville, GA