Metal Fuel Line, for Beetle & Ghia 61-74, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your vintage Volkswagen, the fuel delivery system is the last place you should ever cut corners. This EMPI Metal Fuel Line is a precision-engineered replacement for the critical section of your fuel system that resides within the engine compartment. Many air-cooled enthusiasts make the mistake of running long stretches of rubber fuel hose from the chassis hardline directly to the fuel pump or carburetor, which significantly increases the risk of engine fires due to heat degradation or accidental contact with moving parts. This authentic metal hardline restores the factory-correct configuration, ensuring that fuel is transported through a durable, heat-resistant conduit that can withstand the unique vibrations and thermal cycles of the VW engine bay. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply maintaining your daily driver, replacing a pitted, kinked, or missing metal line is an essential step in securing your vehicle''s longevity.

This specific metal fuel line, part number 113-127-521A, is designed to bridge the gap where rubber hose simply isn''t enough. It is important to note that this is not the long fuel line that runs through the central tunnel of the chassis; rather, it is the specialized engine-bay line used to route fuel safely toward the pump and carburetor. Crafted from high-quality steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, this line is built to handle modern ethanol-blended fuels that can often degrade older, inferior materials. By utilizing this metal line in conjunction with the proper rubber grommets through the engine tin, you maintain the pressure integrity of your cooling system while preventing the fuel line from vibrating against sharp metal edges. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that "good enough" isn''t in the vocabulary of a true VW specialist, which is why we offer this EMPI component as a robust solution for your Beetle or Karmann Ghia fuel system overhaul.

FITMENT

This metal fuel line is designed for the following air-cooled Volkswagen models equipped with standard carbureted engines:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Standard): 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974.
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974.
• Note: While primarily listed for 61-74, this line is a staple for most upright 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc engine configurations utilizing a mechanical fuel pump.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI Metal Fuel Line:

• Part Number: 113-127-521A (Cross-reference: 113127521A).
• Material: Heavy-duty Zinc-Plated Steel for maximum corrosion resistance and durability.
• Inside Diameter: Optimized for standard 5mm fuel flow requirements.
• Outside Diameter: Designed to fit standard 7mm (approx. 1/4 inch) VW fuel hose connections.
• Finish: Bright Zinc/Silver finish to match original factory aesthetics.
• Bends: Pre-formed to clear engine components and follow factory routing paths.
• Unit of Sale: Sold Each.

PRO TIPS

1. Never Skip the Firewall Grommet

When installing this metal fuel line, it must pass through the front engine tin (the firewall area). Never allow the metal line to make direct contact with the engine tin. Always install a fresh rubber fuel line grommet in the tin before sliding the metal line through. Without this grommet, engine vibrations will cause the sharp edges of the tin to saw through the metal line over time, leading to a catastrophic fuel leak directly over your hot engine components. It''s a small part that prevents a massive disaster.

2. Use High-Quality German Style Clamps

When connecting your rubber fuel hoses to the ends of this metal line, avoid using cheap hardware-store worm-gear clamps. Worm-gear clamps often have slots that can "cheese-grate" or cut into the rubber hose as you tighten them. Instead, use authentic German-style fuel line clamps (smooth-band). These provide 360-degree even tension without damaging the hose, ensuring a leak-proof seal on the 7mm ends of this metal line. Remember to check your hoses for cracks or "checking" every time you change your oil.

3. Proper Alignment and "Double-Hosing"

When fitting this line between the fuel pump and the carburetor, ensure the line is not under tension or rubbing against the alternator/generator belt. If you find the line is slightly off-angle for your specific aftermarket carburetor setup, you can use a dedicated tubing bender to make very slight adjustments; however, never "hand-bend" it sharply as this can cause internal restrictions or stress fractures. For the safest seal, ensure the rubber hose overlaps the metal line by at least one inch before applying your clamp, providing plenty of surface area for a secure grip.