[C320-list] Fuel line size

[Jack Brennan]

I sent a version of this msg a while ago, but I don’t think it got through the system.

I’m in the midst of upgrading to a Racor 500 fuel/water separator filter, and of course I’ve run into a little hitch. I’m hoping someone has more experience than me with this question.

Our fuel lines are 5/16, and I’m assuming that the fittings on the lift pump and the fuel tank are the same. But the Racor requires a port fitting described as ¾-16 UNC, which has a minimum hose barb size of 3/8.

My question: Is it sound practice to soften the fuel line in hot water and push it over the 3/8 fitting, or will it create the possibility of air getting into the fuel line?

By the way, the 500 fits nicely in the port stern locker between the access door to the aft cabin and the steering gear. Plenty of room to work, and I can reach the shutoff valve for the fuel tank while working on the filter. I used backplates and through-bolted through the bulkhead.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.

Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Jack Brennan
Sent: Sunday, June 14, 2020 3:30 PM
To: C320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Fuel line size

Someone a while ago was trying to figure out the size of our fuel lines. It’s 5/16 on my 320, a 1998, and I believe the line is original.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.




Sent from Mail for Windows 10