Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Morgan Photo Gallery Silicone fuel filler pipe

In 2010, five years after buying my S1 Roadster, the fuel hose from the filler cap to the tank split and dispensed several pints of the 100 octane I had just bought onto a very hot exhaust pipe. I was lucky not to have been incinerated but embarrassingly I was stranded outside the Ferrari factory in Maranello. I was able to get a replacement Morgan pipe sent by DHL, but at no small cost.

On my return I had a word with the factory about their pipe but there was very little interest and a "It's a Morgan Sir, they all do that" attitude. My suggestion that perhaps all Morgans should not do that and that a car costing north of £40K should be made with better quality materials, was met with anger.

I sent the pipe to a rubber analyst who confirmed that the pipe was made of fuel-resistant NBR rubber, but that NBR rubber is extremely hard and requires to have 10% plastisicer in it. This had been leached out by the alcohol now contained in petrol.

A short internet search found a company that makes seamless silicone fuel pipes. I sent the details to Morgan but there was no interest shown.

Lo and Behold, another five years on, the replacement fuel pipe supplied by Morgan is starting to fail. I contacted the firm that makes the silicone pipes and, with the involvement of Berrybrook Motors, we have had a small number of silicone pipes made. The manufacturer claims they will last the life of the car.

I have had one fitted, and if anyone wants one, Berrybrook have a small number (but could have some more made depending on demand). The fitter said that they might also fit a 4/4 or Plus 4 of the same era as my car. It might also be possible the have pipes made for other models/years if there is enough interest. I have no financial connection with either the manufacturer or Berrybrook Motors.

I think it's very nice of you to inform other Morgan owners out there.
In my opinion the Research and Development department is the regular Morgan enthusiast. In particular those who dares to use the car.

Many thanks for this info, I live close to Berrybrook and will be giving the a call to get a spare for my 2 year old Roadster.

Interesting analysis. Thanks for sharing.

Good post. I too, will contact Berrybrook to see if I can get one for my 4 year old Plus4

Would be interested to find out if they also fit the new Roadster

Makes you wonder about the rest of the fuel pipes ?
The ethanol increase in petrol has been investigated and the conclusion is that "older" cars are very susceptible to rubber pipe/seal failure.
Petrol pumps are a notable problem area, but I think Bosch pumps have ethanol resistant seals.
There was a short article in Miscellany within the last 2 years about ethanol.
It appears that the US has a surplus of it after promoting growth of crops to produce it. It is on the market at a reduced price so countries are being encouraged to take it.
The EU have tried to get it up to 15% content in petrol (but so far the UK has applied a lower content).
At some stage it is likely to increase and cause issues and cost for owners of older cars....Morgans!!!
I have started an annual check of my fuel pipes and at the first sign of a problem will replace all rubber ones.
My filler pipe is silicone and looks good so far....2002 car

I don't know, I'm afraid. Best ask Bradley at Berrybrook.

I can give you approximate dimensions if you want. Otherwise you will need 10 cars wanting pipes to make the manufacture economically viable.

John

Thanks after all the issue with my garden power tools plastic bits dissolving I will give them a call for my S1

Purchased a new silicone one a few year ago and the chap told me it had to be treated , unable to remember what with its on now along with a new petrol pump .