Selecting the right fuel tubing for your RC airplane or helicopter is just as important as choosing the correct fuel. Fuel systems are exposed to chemical reactions, vibration, temperature changes, and long-term wear. Using the wrong tubing material can cause swelling, cracking, leaks, and even engine failure. DU-BRO’s fuel tubing is engineered with specific formulas designed for chemical compatibility—meaning each tube type is purpose-built for the fuel you use.
In this DU-BRO 101 segment, Joshua walks through the basics of choosing the proper tubing, along with a quick spring inspection of an older model. Spring is the ideal time to freshen up your lines, check for brittleness, and replace tubing that has been softened or damaged by fuel. Even if your aircraft flew perfectly last season, fuel and storage conditions can degrade tubing over time.
DU-BRO offers both silicone and Tygon-style tubing, each clearly labeled so you always get exactly what your fuel system requires.
Silicone Tubing for Nitro Fuel Systems
Nitromethane-based fuels require silicone fuel tubing, a material that resists swelling and breakdown when exposed to nitro fuel and methanol. Silicone tubing is flexible, durable, and available in a variety of vibrant colors, making it easy to identify and route your fuel lines. If you fly glow engines, this is the tubing designed specifically for your application.
Characteristics of DU-BRO silicone tubing include:
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Soft flexibility for stress-free routing
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Bright color options for easy identification
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Long-lasting resistance to nitro fuel chemistry
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Ideal for glow engines, 2-stroke and 4-stroke alike
DU-BRO’s premium silicone fuel tubing comes in multiple diameters and colors.
Tygon Tubing for Gasoline Engines
Gasoline-based fuels—including those used in larger 2-stroke RC engines—require Tygon-style fuel tubing. Gasoline and oil blends can destroy silicone tubing quickly, so the chemically compatible Tygon material is essential. It is stiffer than silicone and retains its shape well, even under vibration or exposure to sunlight.
Tygon tubing is perfect for:
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Gasoline-powered RC airplanes
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Giant-scale models
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Gas conversions
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Long-term durability in harsh conditions
DU-BRO labels its Tygon tubing clearly to prevent confusion when ordering.
Why Tubing Selection Matters
Choosing incorrect tubing can cause:
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Leaks
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Engine tuning issues
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Air bubbles in the fuel line
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Flooding or starvation
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Premature wear of carburetor components
Just like in the automotive world, chemical compatibility determines everything. Your fuel system relies on tight seals, proper flexibility, and clean fuel delivery. A mismatch can lead to dangerous in-flight failures.
For best results, pair proper tubing with DU-BRO fuel tanks, fittings, and clunks for a fully reliable system.
Perform a Spring Fuel System Check
As Joshua emphasizes, spring is the perfect time for annual inspection:
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Check tubing for cracks or stiffness
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Ensure lines haven’t grown brittle
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Verify clunk movement inside the tank
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Replace any questionable parts immediately
Fuel tubing is inexpensive—and replacing it now can prevent serious trouble later.
With the right DU-BRO tubing and routine maintenance, your RC engine will enjoy consistent fuel delivery and dependable performance all season long.
