OEM Fuel lines - Worth it?

[barold]

We have a new to us Yamaha 6Hp outboard coming this spring and as new dinghy and OB owners (we are sailors with an inboard diesel) I've read varying opinions on fuel lines (from an external tank). Is it worth the hassle and expense of finding a yamaha fuel line or would a 3rd party brand be acceptable (and just require replacement more often)? What makes OEM that much better?

[rbk]

Nothing really except cleaner looks. Personally I would make my own with barbed fittings. That way you can always part one together, but they are more prone to air leaks. If you use oem the fittings can’t be re-used.

[billknny]

Originally Posted by barold

We have a new to us Yamaha 6Hp outboard coming this spring and as new dinghy and OB owners (we are sailors with an inboard diesel) I've read varying opinions on fuel lines (from an external tank). Is it worth the hassle and expense of finding a yamaha fuel line or would a 3rd party brand be acceptable (and just require replacement more often)? What makes OEM that much better?

If you use good A-1 or B-1 rated fuel hose that part should be fine.

I have occasionally had issues with the quick connect fittings working as they should from after-market suppliers. Some have leaked, some are a PITA to get latched.

[charliehows]

I bought a brand new Yamaha 2.5 horse 2stroke from a dealership and the rubber seal on the fuel Cap was already perished - had to find some nitrile rubber sheet from Clarks rubber and cut it out myself. So - wouldn't lose any sleep not using OEM fuel hoses.

[fritzdfk]

I have found the biggest problem with cheap aftermarket fuel lines are the primer bulbs. The bulbs don't pump well are hard to pump and fail to work at all. The Moeller ones are good though.