Teflon tape is used as a thread sealant and plumbers will often use it around drains and when applying new pipes to certain areas. The tape does not hamper the functionality and it will prevent possible leaks from occurring. The same can be done for gasoline lines if you need a quick fix. However, it is not the best-recommended practice.
Can You Use Teflon Tape On Gasoline Lines?
Teflon Tape is resistant to both petrol and diesel. Additionally, It can resist the heat and pressure built-up from an engine when fuel is being transported from the fuel tank to the engine. While it might not stop massive leakages, it will affect minor leaks. Thus, I suggest using Teflon tape as a temporary fix.
Keep in mind that Teflon tape is only resistant to moderate pressure and it might not be able to deal with excessive pressure too well. This means that vehicles running compounds like jet fuel might not be able to use Teflon tape for the gasoline lines.
The best practice would be to test the Teflon tape separately if possible. You might not be able to create a situation with the same pressure, but you can simulate the process to see if any fuel drips through the Teflon tape. Keep in mind that Teflon tape will not assist in plugging up any punctures in the gas lines and the pressure might force the chemicals through the tape.
Which Type Of Teflon Tape Is Best For Gasoline?
If you are dealing with gasoline or even gas lines, you would want to stick to the yellow PTFE tape. The yellow tape is slightly stronger. The yellow PTFE tape is designed with a chemical-resistant compound and can block out the fumes from standard gas. Much like it can do the sealing work for gas lines, it should do the same for fuel lines.
The yellow PTFE tape is also referred to as “yellow plumbers tape” by many professionals and will ensure your gasoline lines do not leak.
What About Using White Teflon Tape For Gasoline Fittings?
The white PTFE tape is best used for water and it does not have resistance to chemical compounds. The white tape can resist the pressure from water and should provide an adequate seal for the job. Thus, I don’t suggest using white Teflon tape for gasoline fittings.
How To Apply Teflon Tape on Fuel Fittings
1. Clean The Components
The first step would be to thoroughly clean the components and to make sure that no dust particles or debris are located on the threaded sections. Even if you apply tape to the thread, the dust will prevent it from sticking and this could create areas for air to pass through. Eventually, it could wear and this will allow leaks to occur.
It is best that you thoroughly wash the components to ensure all dirt is removed. However, using new components might be an even better option to ensure you can apply them correctly.
2. Ensure They Are Dried
You will also need to make sure that all the components are dried efficiently. If the components are still wet, you might have an issue with water preventing the Teflon tape from sticking to its full potential. I would often recommend using a good blow drier or even a hairdryer to ensure that the components are adequately dried.
3. Apply The Teflon Tape
You will want to apply the Teflon tape to the threaded section of the components. By wrapping it in a clockwise motion, you should get it in between the threads and you want it to stick as much as possible. Once the Teflon tape sticks to these threads, it should hold up against any water or even fuel leakages that might occur.
4. Reapply The Components
Once you are done, you should reapply the components with the threading done. It should stick to the thread of the component and slide into the other components. This will make it possible for the Teflon tape to prevent possible leaking.
If you don’t have a threaded component, you can simply wrap the Teflon tape around the fuel lines. If you have a puncture or leak, this will need to be taken to your local mechanic. However, the Teflon tape works best when connected to certain joints. If you have one component connecting to another, it might be a possible leak area that needs to be plugged in. I would recommend using the Teflon tape to do this.
Best Teflon Tape To Consider
If you know how to apply the Teflon tape and you understand how the process works, you might be wondering which Teflon tape is the best to consider. I have identified the Teflon tape brands I believe you should consider. These have worked wonders for numerous mechanics on fuel lines for automobiles:
1. Maveek Self-Adhesive Waterproof Insulation Yellow Tapes
The Maveek Self-Adhesive Waterproof Insulation Yellow Tapes is one of the top brands and these tapes are affordable. They tend to block out most of the water and they will easily keep your fuel lines safe from possible leaks.
The tape is also designed to be electrical tape and this means that it can withstand different voltage levels. For the price and the value of this tape, I would highly recommend it for the quality it provides.
2. PTFE Yellow Gas Line Thread Sealant Tape
The PTFE Yellow Gas Line Thread Sealant Tape is another excellent tape you could choose and while it might be slightly more expensive than some of the other brands, the durability makes up for it. According to the manufacturer, it can withstand temperatures in the range of 500 degrees Fahrenheit if needed.
Due to the overall design, this tape is easy to use, and should you apply it correctly, it could last you a lifetime in total lifespan.
3. Gasoila YT71 Yellow PTFE High-Density Thread Tape Roll
Finally, the Gasoila YT71 Yellow PTFE High-Density Thread Tape Roll is one of the other options that I prefer to use. It features a high-density design and easily integrates with the threads of your on the things you want to tape. It has excellent resistance to the elements and should ensure you have overall functionality that will keep your lines protected.
Being one of the thickest tapes, it is also a bit more expensive than some of the others. This tape is 3.8mm in overall thickness, which means it will be harder for leaks to penetrate the tape. I would recommend it as a top option.
Wrap-Up
It can often be daunting to find the right tape for your gasoline lines. However, Teflon tape is proven to be a good temporary solution. Keep in mind that it should be treated as a temporary solution only.
Meta: Teflon tape on gasoline lines can buy you a bit of time to help you reach a mechanic and fix the possible issues with your vehicle.