Air in fuel feed

Sep 10, 2012
226
Hunter 450 Gulfport, Florida
I built a fuel polisher sometime back and the pump failed. I replaced and because I used clear fuel line I was seeing air streaming through, not a lot but intermittent. I replaced most fuel lines with clear to see where it was entering as every other means to stop it failed. I tracked back to the fitting on the tank which is a square block threaded into a large nut which I resealed the adapter fitting and barb. The tank is almost full so the air must be entering above the fuel level. Anyone ever have a crack or such at the pick up tube? I am going to pull the tube to inspect, but haven't done so yet. I am hesitant because the tank is fiberglass and the fitting is substantial.
 
Mar 6, 2008
1,354
Catalina 1999 C36 MKII #1787 Coyote Point Marina, CA.
Yes I have heard of a pin hole on the pickup tube above the fuel level.
 
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Sep 10, 2012
226
Hunter 450 Gulfport, Florida
Either this has never happened to any one or no one is aware, that is the magic of transparent fuel line, it gives you something to worry about.
 
Sep 10, 2012
226
Hunter 450 Gulfport, Florida
Yes I have heard of a pin hole on the pickup tube above the fuel level.
Took a while to get back, thanks for the response. I pulled the insert adapter that threads into the large nut on the tank, it has a flare that appears to pressure fit the dip tube, my concern is I have never seen how that is assembled. Can I remove the large nut without the dip tube dropping into the tank as it would be v e r y difficult to retrieve. Have you ever seen the assembly. I reattached the adapter and it seems worse than before. Are Catalinas similar ?
 
Last edited:
Mar 6, 2008
1,354
Catalina 1999 C36 MKII #1787 Coyote Point Marina, CA.
I am not sure how the fixture is assembled on my fuel tank. If you are concerned that the tube may fall down into the tank, can you insert a springy wire with a hook at the end into the valve and down the tube about a foot so if it drops you can pull it up. I would think it is not going to drop down since it was installed that way. Is the fuel gauge access opening closeby? You may be able to hold the tube through this opening.
Post a few photo.