Fuel System Inspection

PROCEDURE

1. If a smell of gasoline is noticed while driving or after parking the vehicle in the sun, the fuel system requires immediate inspection.

2. Remove the fuel tank filler cap and check it for corrosion and gasket damage. Remove the worn fuel cap gasket by carefully prying it out with a screwdriver, taking care not to damage the cap. The gasket must show a clear impression of the filler neck edge. If the gasket is mechanically damaged or corroded, replace it.
3. Check the fuel supply and return lines for cracks. Make sure the flare fitting of the fuel supply line to the injector and the banjo fittings of the fuel filter are tight.
4. The fuel system is best inspected with the vehicle raised on a hoist or placed on stands, since some fuel system components, such as the tank and part of the fuel line, are located on the underbody.

5. With the vehicle raised, inspect the tank and filler neck tube from underneath. Pay particular attention to the connection between the filler neck and the tank. Punctures, cracks and mechanical damage are not permitted. Leaks may sometimes be caused by a loose connection of the rubber filler tube or deterioration of the rubber. Such defects can be repaired by the owner.

* Never repair the fuel tank yourself (except for replacing rubber parts). Welding or soldering causes explosion of vapors accumulated inside the tank.

6. Carefully inspect all rubber hoses and metal tubes leading from the tank. Check the connections for security, and check the hoses for wear, pinching and other damage. Carefully check the condition of the tubes connecting the tank to the injector. If necessary, repair the damaged sections of the line or replace them (see subsection 5.6).