Bad gas smell from outside of car while running

[CubbyChowder]

I'm having a really strong gas smell coming from the engine bay while the car is running. I've inspected it some and haven't found any visible leaks. I don't smell gas while inside the car. Any input? I searched a bit but mostly everything I could find related to smells coming from under the rear seat. Thanks in advance.

[ButtJuice]

Check the fuel line thingy by the thermostat.

Idk, just a guess!

[oldmann]

Smell of gas could come from many different places under the hood.

Start with the the rubber lines to the feed and return to the injector rail.
Hoses by the frame rail, one is pressure, one is return, 4 clamps, CK these.

Under the throttle body, 2 short hoses to the Fuel rail itself, again 2 hoses 4 clamps.

Fuel pressure regulator, where it fits into rail, has 2 O-rings that could leak.

Each of the fuel injectors have O-rings that could leak. Unless there is obviously fuel leaking here save this for last.

There is a vapor canister (under throtlle body inlet) that could have leaking hoses, in and out from the fuel tank, This should only be vapor.

All of these should be CK'd, or better yet replaced with new, (fuel lines and clamps) while your in there. If you have'nt replaced any of this, Than its probably 20 plus yrs old.

Look for the obvious, wet lines, drips while running, smell of gas after its been shut off for bit.

Good luck

[LJ851]

If you are smelling strong fuel smell then you have a liquid fuel leak somewhere. It should be fairly obvious, feel around all the connections and joints in the fuel system with your fingers to feel for liquid fuel, you may need to pressurize the system.


If you decide to drive it carry a fire extinguisher!!

[CubbyChowder]

Thanks for the input guys!

[irish44j]

Also, the smell under the back seat: check the hoses into the tank obviously. ONe of mine the clamp had cut through one of the hose ends and caused a small leak. I could only smell it from outside the car though, since the cover plate was sealed well.

[Threehz]

Bad memories....

I had an issue with the fuel pump gasket, issue being it disintegrated. The good news is that almost all the areas where you could have a leak are easily accessible and not hard to find. Definitely pop both inspection lids under the rear seat, look for bubbling/wet paint on the tank.

GL

[series88]

most of the time when people ask me the same thing is first suspect is the "u" hose by the fuel filter....under the car between right front door and rear wheel