Fuel Smell

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Jul 15, 2013 | 02:09 AM

SGTCrowley

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From: Phoenix AZ

Fuel Smell

Just got a 1979 Corvette on Craigslist. It has a full tank. I went out driving to test a new performance thermostat and I got a strong fuel smell coming from the rear, outside and inside, after running it.

What are common trouble spots for vapor leaks/fuel leaks on these cars?

I get REAL nervous when I smell gas!!!

Jul 15, 2013 | 06:45 AM

rbowman

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If its coming from the rear of the vehicle after a drive it is possible the rubber fuel lines in the tank area are leaking.

Ron

Jul 15, 2013 | 09:11 AM

Alan 71

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From: Westminster Maryland

Hi sgtc,
Since you mention 'full tank' you might also want to check the gasket on the gas cap. There might be enough 'sloshing' around to leak some out the cap.
The hoses Ron mentions could certainly be the source too.
Regards,
Alan

Jul 15, 2013 | 10:34 AM

SGTCrowley

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From: Phoenix AZ

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan 71

Thanks, ...I found a good thread on the sending unit Gasket, I'm just not sure how to access those lines and/or the sending unit?

I need a good repair manual. From diagrams on a Google search it looks like the gasket, and lines are on the top of the tank, so the tank must be dropped down for access?

I have a full tank of gas too! I'll just have to drive it and keep an eye on it.

I have full coverage, $500 deductible and a Fire extinguisher... so I should be good!

Jul 15, 2013 | 10:41 AM

qwank

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From: Southern NH

how did the performance thermostat work out?

Jul 15, 2013 | 12:24 PM

78SilverCam

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From: Shearwater Nova Scotia

Quote:

Originally Posted by rbowman

If its coming from the rear of the vehicle after a drive it is possible the rubber fuel lines in the tank area are leaking.

Ron

I had the same issue. First step is to replace all rubber fuel hoses at the gas tank, fuel pump and Evap Cannister. You can do it unit by unit but if they are all the original hoses - I would replace them all anyway.

I am willing to bet your problem will go away once that is done.

Of note, the fuel pump hose is "S-shaped". Either carefully bend a normal hose so that it doesn't kink, or get a replacement from Corvette Central or (your preferred vendor X).

Jul 15, 2013 | 01:48 PM

SGTCrowley

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From: Phoenix AZ

Quote:

Originally Posted by qwank

how did the performance thermostat work out?

It's helped, a lot, I think? I drove it last night, Phoenix got a little rain, so it was a nice drive. Ran fine. Then, this morning I drove down to my school's finical aid office. The Outside Temps were between 90 and 95 Fahrenheit. I took the T-Tops off for the first time. It ran very cool (a lot of heat at my feet and no AC, yet)

But, when I changed the T-Stat, the fluid in the radiator looked like 50% water and it stunk like a sewer!! So as soon as I get some extra cash, I am going to have Firestone flush the engine and radiator!

I can accept donations at www.HeroRanch.com LOL!!!