Fuel Smell
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 62
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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!!!
What are common trouble spots for vapor leaks/fuel leaks on these cars?
I get REAL nervous when I smell gas!!!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,212
Likes: 4,301
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
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
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 62
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From: Phoenix AZ
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!
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 217
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From: Shearwater Nova Scotia
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).
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 62
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From: Phoenix AZ
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!!!
Eventually, I plan to put in a High Performance radiator and water pump on it. I do live in Phoenix!
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!!!
Eventually, I plan to put in a High Performance radiator and water pump on it. I do live in Phoenix!
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