Fuel line OK for coolant?

[240ZMan]

I know it's a bda idea to use coolant/windshield washer hose for fuel, but what about the reverse? I am replacing the hoses on my 73 and the hose between the thermostat housing and the balance tube of the intake manifold is no longer available. It looks like I should be able to just use some 5/16" fuel line for the short distance.

[Bambikiller240]

Originally posted by 240ZMan

I am replacing the hoses on my 73 and the hose between the thermostat housing and the balance tube of the intake manifold is no longer available. It looks like I should be able to just use some 5/16" fuel line for the short distance.

I would think that it would not be a problem at all to use either fuel or water rated hose in this application. Interesting that you mention the hose you need is NLA. It must be a different one than what is used for 1972 Z's, as I just got one from Courtesy Nissan in TX about 3 months ago.

You may want to check w/ Chloe at Midwest Z. She can get stuff that other people seem unable to get.

[seerex]

I agree it might be overkill but it would work ok , have you checked msa , I remember when ordering my thermostat housing they asked about that hose if I needed it , they show it as part #16-8016 and 5.57 as in price , just for info , good luck Jeff:geek:

[240ZMan]

Actually, it was MSA's catalog I was ordering from. I was looking for 16-8015 as I have a 73. The part number you mentioned says it's for a 74 in the catalog I have so I didn't ask about that part.

I have some 5/16" fuel line and the bend doesn't look too bad, so I'm not going to look further. After all, that portion of the coolant circuit is only for the intake manifold.

[seerex]

my bad I thought yours was a 74 , but no biggie as long as the bend is not bad , and I bet still cheaper, I hear there is a built in thermostat for the manifold itself so when it reaches like 86 f it cuts off the water to it any way

[JEFF]

Fuel line is ok for water/coolant --- but not the other way around.

- Jeff

[Ed]

Another option would be to take the old hose to a auto parts store and ask the parts clerk to match the hose with something he's got in stock.

[dogma420]

really doesn't matter, just make sure it's sealed up. Heating up the manifold really isn't a biggie....i've had it blocked up and open, but I do know that stock hose will kink right there.

Get it from MSA, at least I did a couple of years ago.