fixing a weeping fuel line from a full diesel tank

[rubberduck]

Maybe i need to add a picture for some context here... nothing is on the side, everything is on the top.

The fuel tank itself is not leaking nor are any of the pipes. Is the metal seal around the pipe coming from the tank which is weeping.

Maybe this helps, though i believe the ultimate answer remains the same.

[model 10]

Stupid question, did you hold the fitting tighten the big nut?

[BatEng]

Originally Posted by Compass790

Amazing! I'm a rough bstd but not sure I'd wanna fly in a plane you fixed the fuel tank on. No offence intended. :-) Wouldn't object to trying on diesel boat tho

No offence taken but it is an approved and common fix for all USAF aircraft. Fixes small leaks until the aircraft can be scheduled down for a permanent fix.

[model 10]

Originally Posted by BatEng

No offence taken but it is an approved and common fix for all USAF aircraft. Fixes small leaks until the aircraft can be scheduled down for a permanent fix.

He's right. But there are weeps, seeps and leaks. Weeps outside are not uncommon. Seeps need attention and you fix leaks. Inside it's just like a boat, you can't stand the smell. Avgas is tinted with a dye that is visible before you can smell it.

[Cheechako]

I don't see anywhere you said...Did you tighten the fitting? The rubber seal I see there is leaking? How much? Not uncommon for that arrangement to be just a bit damp.... I prefer rubber impregnated cork to all-rubber seals for diesel. Rubber gets real slippery when wet with diesel. It also extrudes out when you tighten, cork is firmer and less slippery.

[hellosailor]

For a "get home" kludge, a thorough cleaning (scotchbrite or other fine abrasive) and an alcohol wipe, then a couple of layers of liquid vinyl (liquid lectric, etc.) would probably seal it for a good while, and have the advantage of peeling off clean and easy.

But with fuel leaks, it is always better to take apart the connenction and properly repair it. Looks like it just needs to be cleaned and have new gasket/seal installed, of the proper type.

[Simi 60]

Originally Posted by Nightcrawler

Possibly Silicone Rescue tape?

Have several rolls onboard myself and had a slow weep from one of my copper brass diesel fittings.

Silicone rescue tape failed after a day but the older style black rubberweld tape has been going strong for weeks.
Thanks for reminding me , today i will fix it properly,

[ValiantV]

Originally Posted by NYSail

Strange your fuel lines don’t go deeper..... 1/2 to 2/3? Personally I would address that as it seems like an issue. I also agree that it’s important with fuel to do it right...... Fire sucks.

Good luck!
Greg

I could understand the heater feed line not going to the bottom of the tank: so your heater won't use up all of your fuel and leave you stranded and out of fuel.

The engine? If that is the case, I can understand why.

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[ValiantV]

Originally Posted by Nightcrawler

Possibly Silicone Rescue tape? I keep rolls of it on board. It seals to itself and withstands most any fluid and temp extremes. Had it on a water hose 75+PSI and actually forgot about it. Not sure if it will seal diesel, but I'm guessing if you get a good clean wipe on the fuel line and start winding it on itself you may get a good temp seal.

Haven't personally used "Rescue Tape", but I looked at it yesterday and it says "fuel resistant". What that means in reality is probably debatable.

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