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Vetteworks EFI Tank Conversion?

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Old Mar 15, 2016 | 10:08 PM
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Default Vetteworks EFI Tank Conversion?

So I'm getting ready to put in the Fitech Go EFI system here pretty soon. I've gone back and forth on whether to go with the fuel command center or just upgrade the fuel system. I confirmed today that it still has the original tank and may even have the original fuel pump, so I'm thinking the best option is probably to just go with a new EFI tank, even if it's a bit more of a hassle. If I'm going to spend $1500 on upgrading to fuel injection, I might as well do it the right way...

I'm looking at a new tank from Vetteworks that includes an late model EFI pump setup. I'm admittedly a rookie at the fuel system, so I'm just trying to figure out all that I'm going to have to do for this conversion. From reading other posts, I know I will need to replace the tank/pump unit, will need to reroute the lines as the pump is on the opposite side of stock I believe, and will need to figure out a way to vent it. I don't believe I'll need a regulator as the EFI unit has it built in, but I will need to confirm that it can handle the PSI the new pump is going to be pushing.

One question I have is whether or not I can reuse the stock hard fuel line with a new high pressure system or if I need to re-route all of that completely as well? I also will need to rerun a return line and I'm not sure if I can use the original venting since the return is lower pressure or if I need to run new line for that as well. Beyond that, I'm not sure if I'm missing anything else that will need to be done?

Does anyone have experience with the Vetteworks specific tank? If so, is there anything you had to do that I'm leaving out here?
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Old Mar 15, 2016 | 10:29 PM
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You can use the factory hard line for your feed, no problem.

As for the return, some have had success using the vent line, but it's really small (1/4" I think). I opted to run a new 3/8" return line on the driver's side. I used 3/8" brake line from a local trucking supply store. Easy to bend. Used 3x 5ft sections. They have fittings and I connected them with two brass couplers. Cut each end and flared.
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Old Mar 15, 2016 | 10:56 PM
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Originally Posted by zwede
You can use the factory hard line for your feed, no problem.

As for the return, some have had success using the vent line, but it's really small (1/4" I think). I opted to run a new 3/8" return line on the driver's side. I used 3/8" brake line from a local trucking supply store. Easy to bend. Used 3x 5ft sections. They have fittings and I connected them with two brass couplers. Cut each end and flared.
Great, thanks for the info! Was it pretty easy to route the lines? I can't it's that tough of a job, but then again, I've jinxed myself saying that before.

I also forgot that I will have to run new electrical to the pump as well since my 78 uses a mechanical pump.
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 08:58 AM
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It wasn't that bad to run the new line. Had to fight it in a few spots.

To power the pump I ran a new 14 gauge wire from the battery (I put fusible link right next to the battery). Wire then goes to the storage comp on the pass side where I put a relay controlled by the EFI. The switched power goes out into the wheel well (rubber grommet in the hole) and to the tank. At the tank I used a 4-prong weatherpack connector (Power/ground for the pump and sender/ground. I could have done a 3-prong as the 2 grounds are the same thing).
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 10:31 AM
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I am thinking about adding this to my car for my EFI.
https://www.holley.com/products/fuel_systems/hydramat/

any thoughts?
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 10:55 AM
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Everything I've heard about it suggests it works great. A bit pricey, though.
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 03:56 PM
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Just want to throw this out there to think about..

Your old line from the tank to the front (if it is original) could be in poor shape and was designed for no pressure/slightly negative pressure. I would check it well. And it will depend on what pump you use and where you place the regulator. Some of the modern FI pumps can put out over 100psi. The vettworks can use a regulator in the tank so it would knock down the pressure early. The flexible connections on each end need to be rated for your pressure. So yes, you could use your existing line...maybe

And if you are looking for an alternative
I have an in tank pump similar to the Vetteworks and used factory style late model nylon supply and return lines - really easy.
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 04:25 PM
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Im planning to use the original lines for the return, if theyre in good shape. Will run all new line for the flow from new tank to TBI unit. The TBI unit has a built in regulator as well. This should be acceptable yes (assuming the original line is still in good shape? Even then, I will only be using the hard line and re-plumbing the soft line.
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 04:46 PM
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Like was mentioned earlier - if you use the stock line check it over and clean it out. I used mine ( i have an external pump and regulator ) I rigged up a rubber hose and gravity fed some Gumout through, allowing it to soak for about 30 minutes. I was really surprised at what came out of the line.
It's been 5 years, no issues.

Happy Motoring,
Frank
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 04:57 PM
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Originally Posted by myoriginal77
Like was mentioned earlier - if you use the stock line check it over and clean it out. I used mine ( i have an external pump and regulator ) I rigged up a rubber hose and gravity fed some Gumout through, allowing it to soak for about 30 minutes. I was really surprised at what came out of the line.
It's been 5 years, no issues.

Happy Motoring,
Frank
Thanks for the suggestion!
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 04:59 PM
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Originally Posted by 74modified

And if you are looking for an alternative
I have an in tank pump similar to the Vetteworks and used factory style late model nylon supply and return lines - really easy.
Thanks for the tip on nylon lines.
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Old Mar 16, 2016 | 05:03 PM
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I also have used the nylon lines. ou can get a complete kit of 2 size lines and various connectors if you look around. Just use car when running them so that they don't rub. And a note on the fuel pump. I have come across more than one C3 owner who converted to FI and got stranded somewhere when the exotic, high pressure pump failed them while on the road. Whatever you buy, it might not ba a bad idea to carry a spare.
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Old Mar 17, 2016 | 03:50 AM
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Hi, I use the Tanks inc complete fuel tank kit . I don't know what year your car is but they drop in up to 1974. I did replace my fuel lines during the frame off, but it supplies my Terminator efi without problems. On the end near the tank and in the engine compartment I used Swagelok couplings to 6 AN. Cut of the bubble on the hardline, slide the coupling on and turn it tight, done. From the C5 filter/regulator I have a small piece of tefon lined FI hose to the hardline. In the engine compartment the same, from the hardline to the fuel inlet of the TBI.
The filter can be reached when you take the muffler off.
Nick




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Old Mar 17, 2016 | 10:34 AM
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Originally Posted by dembo
Hi, I use the Tanks inc complete fuel tank kit . I don't know what year your car is but they drop in up to 1974. I did replace my fuel lines during the frame off, but it supplies my Terminator efi without problems. On the end near the tank and in the engine compartment I used Swagelok couplings to 6 AN. Cut of the bubble on the hardline, slide the coupling on and turn it tight, done. From the C5 filter/regulator I have a small piece of tefon lined FI hose to the hardline. In the engine compartment the same, from the hardline to the fuel inlet of the TBI.
The filter can be reached when you take the muffler off.
Nick




dembo have you installed your tank yet is so i'd love to see some pics of your tank installed
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Old Mar 17, 2016 | 03:54 PM
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Yeah the install is complete, I'll try to take some pictures this weekend
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