Quick answer

Choose CPE braided hose for easier routing and lower cost; choose PTFE for maximum chemical resistance and ethanol compatibility in high-performance or flex-fuel setups.

Material differences that matter

CPE (chlorinated polyethylene) is a rubber-like material that stays flexible, resists abrasion, and handles most fuels well. It is the go-to choice for street cars, mild builds, and anyone who wants a hose that bends without kinking.

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a slick, inert plastic that resists nearly every chemical, including high-ethanol blends and aggressive race fuels. It is stiffer and requires careful routing, but it offers the ultimate in fuel compatibility and a longer service life in demanding environments.

Size and application fit

Both 8AN and 10AN sizes are common for fuel supply and return lines. An 8AN hose (about 1/2 inch ID) suits engines up to roughly 600 hp on gasoline. A 10AN hose (about 5/8 inch ID) supports higher flow for larger engines or when running E85, which requires roughly 30% more volume.

DeatschWerks offers both sizes in CPE and PTFE constructions, so you can match the material to your fuel type and the size to your power target.

Routing and installation trade-off

CPE hose bends more easily, making it simpler to route through tight engine bays and around chassis obstacles. PTFE hose requires larger bend radii and often needs pre-shaped sections or dedicated fittings to avoid kinking.

If your build has complex routing with multiple tight turns, CPE saves time and frustration. If the path is straight or you can plan for gentle curves, PTFE works without issue.

CPE vs PTFE: the trade-offs

  • Flexibility: CPE bends easily and resists kinking; PTFE is stiff and needs larger bend radii.
  • Chemical resistance: CPE handles gasoline and common fuels; PTFE resists ethanol, methanol, and aggressive race fuels.
  • Cost: CPE is significantly less expensive per foot; PTFE costs more but lasts longer in harsh environments.
  • Service life: PTFE has a longer service life in high-heat or chemical-heavy applications; CPE may degrade faster with continuous ethanol exposure. If you run E85 or race fuel, PTFE is the safer long-term investment.

Product facts

  • 20 ft, 8AN SS Double Braided CPE Hose: DeatschWerks 20 ft, 8AN SS Double Braided CPE Hose This 8AN CPE hose offers a flexible, corrosion-resistant line for gasoline builds up to moderate power levels, at a lower price than comparable PTFE options.

    20 ft, 8AN SS Double Braided CPE Hose

    20 ft, 8AN SS Double Braided CPE Hose

  • 20 ft, 10AN SS Double Braided PTFE Hose: DeatschWerks 20 ft, 10AN SS Double Braided PTFE Hose The 10AN PTFE hose provides maximum chemical resistance for high-ethanol fuels and race gas, making it the right choice for high-horsepower or flex-fuel applications.

    20 ft, 10AN SS Double Braided PTFE Hose

    20 ft, 10AN SS Double Braided PTFE Hose

Which hose fits your build?

Best for

  • Street cars and mild performance builds using gasoline
  • Builds with complex routing that need a flexible hose

Not for

  • High-ethanol or flex-fuel applications where chemical resistance is critical
  • Straight, short runs where PTFE stiffness is not an issue