Pressure testing fuel system ?

[TJM]

I am upgrading my fuel delivery system and want to verify that there are no leaks anywhere. Specifically I am adding a distribution manifold, replacing a fuel priming pump and the aged hoses that are easily accessed.

Any ideas ? I guess I could get a small hand pump and soap up the connections looking for bubbles ? What PSIG ?
I have Ford Lehmans with 3/8" fuel lines.

 

[twistedtree]

If you can valve off the engine itself and the fuel tank(s), then I’d pump it up to 10-20 psi and check for leaks. Modern tanks are tested to only a couple PSI, so definitely don’t pressurize it. Re the engine, I have no idea what pressure it could take, so safest to valve it off.

 

[Lepke]

Sometimes it's easier to find small leaks with air pressure. Since the lines and manifold will be new and empty, I'd put a gauge and air fitting on the system and pump it up to 10 pounds or so and see if it holds for a few hours.

 

[FF]

A outboard style fuel bulb will make enough pressure to find a leak.

A strip pf paper towel in each fitting and an overnight will show even a tiny leak.

 

[kchace]

All good advice, just make sure you don't pump the tanks up beyond 3psi and usually 2psi is enough for checking for tank leaks.


Ken