Fuel return line
- Thread starter Jayz63
- Start date
Or.......the fuel return line was not used on the 62's but were on the 63-64-65's. Sounds like Chevy found out there was a problem in 62 and this was the way they corrected it.
Just sayin'........you make the call!!!
Biscayne409
Active Member
I found this 2019 thread while searching for a fix to the non-working fuel gauge on my '63 409/425. I tested the gauge and it's good. I bought a new sending unit and when it arrived, I noticed it only has one nipple/connector on it. The catalog I ordered it from says it's for the '63. The non-working sending unit on my car has two. This thread seems to indicate that GM added a return line in '63. Any suggestions on where I might find a sending unit that has the fuel and the return fittings as part of the unit?
Check with Show Cars.
https://show-cars.com/product/3376
https://show-cars.com/product/3376
To install a steel return line with the frame on is a bitch. I ran 4an ss black fuel line from the fuel filter to the sending unit. Haven't had a good chance to check for vapor lock as it is to f'in cold here.
Biscayne409
Active Member
I have the return line. There are two rubber fuel hose couplers on the bad sender. Each goes to a steel, forward running line. I’ve ordered an assembly manual. Looking forward to being able to find details such as GM part numbers, so I can cross reference to currently available parts.
I’ll call the place I bought the unit that won’t work tomorrow and see if they have the right part for me. If not, I’ll send the wrong part back for a refund and order the one that 64ss409 recommends.
Thanks you!,
I’ll call the place I bought the unit that won’t work tomorrow and see if they have the right part for me. If not, I’ll send the wrong part back for a refund and order the one that 64ss409 recommends.
Thanks you!,
With the frame on, and my ‘63 on jack stands, I replaced the missing steel 3/8“ main fuel line, which had been carelessly substituted with a 5/16” rubber hose from the tank to the pump. Unbelievably, the PO had routed it where it flopped around on the driveshaft and and exhaust.
Replacing This 3 piece line was straightforward especially with the photos Paul shared.
The return line was another matter. It is about half a mile long and twisty like a pretzel. Eventually I it cut into 3 pieces, with the cut just before and just after the driveshaft. Used rubber fuel line to join the cuts.
The return line does carry a lot of fuel, as I discovered when I accidentally cut it while reinstalling the transmission.
The job was way bigger than I thought it would be, but working on the ground was a big part of the challenge.
I would do it over again though - to get rid of the floppy rubber line, upgrade to the correct 3/8 line, and for some reassurance on the vapor lock issues.
Just my two cents...
Chip
63 Impala 425hp
Replacing This 3 piece line was straightforward especially with the photos Paul shared.
The return line was another matter. It is about half a mile long and twisty like a pretzel. Eventually I it cut into 3 pieces, with the cut just before and just after the driveshaft. Used rubber fuel line to join the cuts.
The return line does carry a lot of fuel, as I discovered when I accidentally cut it while reinstalling the transmission.
The job was way bigger than I thought it would be, but working on the ground was a big part of the challenge.
I would do it over again though - to get rid of the floppy rubber line, upgrade to the correct 3/8 line, and for some reassurance on the vapor lock issues.
Just my two cents...
Chip
63 Impala 425hp
I have a factory assemble manual you can barrow if you like, it will show the proper routing of the fuel lines.
63409impala
Well Known Member
I was going to use a return line on my 63, but then I started to run race gas in it and no more hot start issues. I don't drive it all that much so price isn't an issue.