Proper 8mm fuel-line for early 51 Beetle

[rdk_1973]

I have replaced the 28 PCI carburator with the correct 26 VFIS. Unfortunately, my 8mm fuel-line doesn't fit. It's to short at the carb-side. I guess it was hand-built by the previous restorer to fit the 28 PCI with the conversion piece (or it was shortened to fit the 28 PCI). It's about 1" short now:

I can buy an 8mm fuel-line, but it looks like it's made of copper. My current fuel-line has a normal metal color. What is supposed to be original? I have seen pictures of Hebmullers with copper-colored fuel lines, but also with the one that I have currently installed.

This is the one that I can buy in various shops:

What's the proper fuel-line for an early 1951 VW? I know it's 8mm, but what's the wall's thickness and which material should be used? If someone has the exact measurements, then that would be great.
_________________
VW Split Beetle (1950)

[rdk_1973]

I also would like to know, why the fuel-line has this shape. I noticed that older (KDF) cars have a direct line to the carburator. Is it to improve the flow?
_________________
VW Split Beetle (1950)

[splitjunkie]

The originals were copper plated steel. Some of the reproductions are copper plated steel and some are just copper. Avoid the copper ones as copper can work harden and crack under vibration.

I would assume that the left handed loop was added to give it more flex so it wouldn't crack but that is just my assumption.
_________________
Chris

You know, a lot of these scratches will buff right out... Jerry Seinfeld

[Martin Southwell]

As you suggest, this shape will allow for expansion/contraction of the metal piping in two planes, one from the straight section into the carb, and the other straight section from the fuel pump. The accountants at VW would not have allowed the use of the extra piping, unless there was a need for it.

This shape, as you say, will help prevent thermal stresses & cracking: http://www.balseal.com/sites/default/files/tr18_020707131421.pdf and again the Coefficient of Expansion will depend on the metal used.

If you think about it, the temperature range within the engine bay varies considerably. Anything from a cold winters day, to driving down a motorway/freeway on a hot summers day.

[jason]

Yours looks like it will work. Bend it back to the shape it is supposed to be. The bottom flat needs to go up and top flat down. You are using the 8mm and not 6, or am I not reading right.

[pastellgreen]

[rdk_1973]

I think mine was hand-made by the previous owner that restored the car. Bending it will probably break it. Maybe I could try to heat it up and try it. Thanks for the information.
_________________
VW Split Beetle (1950)

[pastellgreen]

Here I try to show you the way to bend in two steps:

Frontview: Both horizontal parts should be really horizontal.
View from Above:

Hope this helps