Fuel vapor smell after shutdown

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kenb

New Member
Joined
May 7, 2019
Messages
20
Location
Michigan
1998 TJ Sport, 4.0L, Manual trans

Hello,
I've noticed I get a fuel vapor smell after turning off the engine on my TJ. It seems more pronounced if I've driven enough to get the engine warm. It's coming from the driver's side rear wheel well. It persists for a few minutes after shutdown. I do not smell it when the engine is running and it dissipates after the engine cools, maybe 15 minutes or so. I can smell a little fuel from the filler cap (which is new OEM) but the smell is coming more from the wheel well. I don't smell anything from the passenger side. Any ideas where to start on this? It's obviously difficult to see much of the fuel system in that area. The best plan I had was to attempt to remove the wheel well liner and then take it for a drive and see if I can observe anything.
Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks,
Ken
 
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Agree with removing the liner.

I don't know how much rust you have.

In one of the many laps I've made pulling and reinstalling my tank I replaced my vent tube, filler neck tube, filler neck and tank straps with Spectra parts.

My guess is your 26 year old rubber hoses are starting to go.

Also possible it's the vent hoses and elbows and Ts on top of the tank have failed.

One possible solution is a smoke tester. It generates smoke and pressured air...you'd plug it into the evap system line running back to the tank...and any holes, cracks would smoke.

I just bought an affordable one on Amazon from YSTool. I also own their oil pressure tester. Got it 50 percent off but they're about $100 now. Lot of auto parts stores will rent them.

This was me smoke testing my vacuum hoses. Replaced my throttle body gasket but it looks like I'll need to o ring it soon.

IMG20240619101436_01.jpg


-Mac
 
Thanks for the reply. That smoke tester sounds like the best way forward. I'm in Michigan so my Jeep has rust for sure. Getting that liner out is going to be an adventure but necessary.
 
I'd suggest starting by inspecting the fuel lines and connections around that area. Look closely for any signs of leaks or loose fittings. Sometimes, a small crack or loose connection can cause vapor to escape after the engine is warm. Additionally, it's a good idea to check the condition of the fuel filler cap and its seal.
 
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