How do I delete the fuel return lines?

[85AmCfreak]

The return lines on the Sx-4 are leaking terribly. I would really rather just remove them all together than run new line. I know I can't just block them up because it will cause an air lock and lead to other problems (filling the tank and regular flow become a problem) Any suggestions ??

[thereverendbill]

i just used a inline filter and crimped the return line shut near the tank ..... over 3k miles and runs great

[mudkicker715]

2eagles of mine have no return. This has been years.

[GRONK]

Ditto.  I delete the return line all the time on Jeeps.  Just crimp off the return line and get an inline filter.  Done.

[85AmCfreak]

if what you guys are telling me is true then i have another problem brewing.......it seems there is some sort of blockage in the line or tank then. I already have a clear glass inline filter before the fuel pump. When i watch the fuel flow it goes sort of slow like something is blocking it. Another problem is when I try to fill up the pump stops and spits out fuel at about 1/2 to 3/4 a tank. If I let it settle in the tank I can fill it up....... why is this happening?

[GRONK]

Filler vent tube?

Bad sending unit?

[carnuck]

Charcoal canister clogged on the bottom?

[BenM]

There are two lines on the driver's side, a vent and a return line. The filler tube in the tank is not vented, but should have the restrictor in it for unleaded which does help vent when you're filling.

If the vent and return lines are that bad, you may have to replace some line anyway. I don't know the plumbing on the small Eagles, but on the big Eagles you have to drop the tank to really inspect the vent line.

[85AmCfreak]

Charcoal canister clogged on the bottom?

No emissions on this vehicle as per P/O

Filler vent tube?

There are two lines on the driver's side, a vent and a return line. The filler tube in the tank is not vented, but should have the restrictor in it for unleaded which does help vent when you're filling.

If the vent and return lines are that bad, you may have to replace some line anyway. I don't know the plumbing on the small Eagles, but on the big Eagles you have to drop the tank to really inspect the vent line.

Thanks guys I was thinking it was the vent but I wasn't sure. I am doing the main fuel line this week. I really didn't want to drop the tank but ahh what else is new. Anybody know of a good source for gas tank straps?

[BenM]

I also want to add that I've replaced return lines when they go bad. The Pacer ran very rich at idle until I put the proper filter and return line in. Depending on the condition of your carburetor YMMV.

[carnuck]

If the charcoal canister is gone, there is noplace for the fuel vapors in the tank to go, so the lines will get forced off by the built up pressure in the tank.

[rohnk]

What do you guys mean by placing an inline filter and plugging the lines?

[carguy87]

You follow the return line that comes from that upper nipple on the back side of the ruel filter to the metal line against the driver's strut tower, continues alongside the drivers side body rail, then crosses over by the rear axle, then you simply cut and crimp it close to the sending unit. You can leave 2-4" won't hurt anything.  Then you take out that old stock fuel filter with the dual outlets and insert a standard fuel filter with one inlet and one outlet.  Clear ones are handy so you can tell when they are plugging up or the fuel pump is slacking.

[mudkicker715]

You follow the return line that comes from that upper nipple on the back side of the ruel filter to the metal line against the driver's strut tower, continues alongside the drivers side body rail, then crosses over by the rear axle, then you simply cut and crimp it close to the sending unit. You can leave 2-4" won't hurt anything.  Then you take out that old stock fuel filter with the dual outlets and insert a standard fuel filter with one inlet and one outlet.  Clear ones are handy so you can tell when they are plugging up or the fuel pump is slacking.

You never want a plastic filter after the pump. They cannot handle pressure. Especially where an eagle has a filter right above an exaust manifold.

[BenM]

You never want a plastic filter after the pump. They cannot handle pressure. Especially where an eagle has a filter right above an exaust manifold.

They make a metal filter just like the return one we have, but without the return nipple. Run that in place of the stock one. (I still vote return line.)

If you're really into a big filter, I'd mount one of the big canister filters from a Cherokee or similar down on the inner fender by the pump, they're meant to be pressurized by the in-tank pump and are probably better then anything we're using. I don't trust plastic or glass filters.