Fuel system check
Warning: Gasoline is extremely flammable, so take extra precautions when you work on any part of the fuel system. Don’t smoke or allow open flames or bare light bulbs near the work area, and don’t work in a garage where a gas-type appliance (such as a water heater or a clothes dryer) is present. Since gasoline is carcinogenic, wear fuel-resistant gloves when there’s a possibility of being exposed to fuel and, if you spill any fuel on your skin, rinse it off immediately with soap and water. Mop up any spills immediately and do not store fuel-soaked rags where they could ignite. The fuel system is under constant pressure, so, if any fuel lines are to be disconnected, the fuel pressure in the system must be relieved first. When you perform any kind of work on the fuel system, wear safety glasses and have a Class 8 type fire extinguisher on hand.
1. If you smell gasoline while driving or after the vehicle has been sitting in the sun, inspect the fuel system immediately.
2. Remove the fuel filler cap and inspect it for damage and corrosion. The gasket should have an unbroken sealing imprint. If the gasket is damaged or corroded, remove it and install a new one (see illustration).
i. 2 Use a small screwdriver to carefully pry out the old gasket — take care not to damage the cap
3. Inspect the fuel feed lines for cracks. Make sure all fuel line fittings are dry.
4. Since some components of the fuel system — the fuel tank and part of the fuel feed and return lines, for example — are underneath the vehicle, they can be inspected more easily with the vehicle raised on a hoist. If that’s not possible, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands.
5. With the vehicle raised and safely supported, inspect the fuel tank and filler neck for punctures, cracks and other damage. The connection between the filler neck and the tank is particularly critical. Sometimes a rubber filler neck will leak because of loose clamps or deteriorated rubber (see illustration). These are problems a home mechanic can usually rectify.
i. 5 Inspect the filler hose for cracks and make sure the clamps are tight
Warning: Do not, under any circumstances, try to repair a fuel tank (except rubber components).
6. Carefully check all rubber hoses and metal lines leading away from the fuel tank. Check for loose connections, deteriorated hoses, crimped lines and other damage. Carefully inspect the lines from the tank to the fuel injection system. Repair or replace damaged sections as necessary (see Fuel and exhaust systems).