Fuel line damage

MELODY

MEMBER
1993 MERCURY SABLE
3.8L
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
140,700 MILES

I jacked up the car on the passenger side under what I thought was the frame but saw something starting to bend. After inspecting potential damages, I noticed the fuel line received a bit of a pinch. It is a small area but I am not certain how to remedy it. It is hard to tell if it leaked. I did not see it leak but when I felt it with my fingers I could smell the fuel but do not know if that is normal since it is a fuel line. Can I use a repair kit? Do I have to replace the entire line? Thank you so much for your time and assistance. I really appreciate it.

Image (Click to make bigger)

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,908 POSTS

It is hard to tell for sure, but it looks like the line is not pinched tight, so fuel can still pass. If it has a crack and is leaking, you will see the area get wet, and once the pressure in the line bleeds down, you will have a long crank time to get the engine started. That can take from four or five seconds to as much as ten seconds on some engines. Since the line is not rusty, if it leaks, cut out the 1" section that's damaged, file off the sharp edges on the two pipes, then slide on a short piece of fuel-injection hose, and clamp it. Use the special fuel injection hose clamps to avoid cutting into the rubber.

Standard fuel line hose is meant for carburetors and return lines. Fuel injection hose will withstand over 50 psi that is found in most systems. Fuel injection hose clamps are a metal band that is tightened with a small bolt and nut. The worm-gear style can cut into the hose.

If the hose is difficult to slide on, spray it with silicone spray lube. That makes rubber parts slide on real easily.