DIY Network

'48 Indian Motorcycle: Fuel Lines Replacement Getting the fuel lines just right on the '48 Indian requires some fancy tweaks, including bending and soldering. From "Classic Rides" episode DCLR-303

The new fuel lines are bent and shaped for a perfect custom fit.

For this phase of the restoration of our '48 Indian, new fuel lines where purchased, but the fit wasn't quite perfect. So motorcycle restoration expert Chris Matthews builds and solders together a set that will look great and fit the bike without needing any adjustment.

Materials and tools:

propane torch
solder
flux
new fuel lines
pliers
permanent marker.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Fuel Lines

• Mocking up the fuel lines prior to soldering is the most important step in this process, the old saying, measure twice, solder once applies here.

• Set the lines in place on the bike and hand-tighten the connections to the fuel tank and carburetor.

• Using a permanent marker, mark the depth and orientation of each joint.

• Take the lines off the bike and reassemble them on a work bench, lining up all the registration marks.
  

  	Figure C
  	Figure D

• While holding the lines with pliers, use a propane torch to heat the joint and apply a light coat of flux (figure A).

• Heat the joint again and apply a small amount of solder .

• The solder will melt and run into the joint (figure B).

• Repeat this process for each joint to complete the new fuel line (figure C).

• Allow to cool thoroughly.

• With the new fuel lines completed, Chris reinstalls the fuel tank on the bike (figure D).
  

• He installs the new pet cock (figures E and F).

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

• Finally, Chris installs a new inline fuel filter (figure F) that will help keep debris from contaminating and fouling the fuel system.

  Figure G

  Figure H

  
  

Next up, the oil feed and return lines get replaced.

RESOURCES :

Welders
Lincoln Electric
Website: www.lincolnelectric.com

Kiwi Indian
Website: www.kiwi-indian.com

V-Twin Mfg.
Rims, Spokes, Hubs, Tire Irons and Truing Stand
Website: www.vtwinmfg.com

Motorcycle Lift
Handy Lift
Website: www.handy-lift.com

Various Tools
Eastwood
Website: www.eastwoodco.com

Hepavac Asbestos Vacuum
Bullseye
Website: www.bullseyecorp.com

Parts Washer
Safety Kleen
Website: www.safety-kleen.com

Chrome Polish
G & H Metal Finishers
282 Dakota St.
Paterson, NJ 07503

Belt Grinder
Ellis Manufacturing
Website: www.ellissaw.com

Gaskets/Headers
James Gaskets
Website: www.jamesgaskets.com