Corey,
I too had this problem.  Recently, my fuel filter was changed and I started noticing this smell as well.  Then, my van quit running :-( The problem was that where the fuel line attaches to the plastic part that then feeds the fuel rail became detached.  I guess it got loose during the filter change and worked its way free -- so take a good look under there.  Ironically, I sputter to a stop on my to the gas station.  I got towed to my new mechanic in Delray Beach where the problem was diagnosed and fixed.  I had to get to work and had no time to get under or get dirty.  The good news is, with the gas leak, my undercarriage is now cleaner :-)
     -Robert
-----Original Message-----
From: corey hoffman <gorgemetalfab@YAHOO.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Sun, 16 May 2004 17:50:31 -0700
Subject: gas smell

I have an 87 westy with 130k.  After simply starting
the van and moving it a few feet then shutting it
down, the smell of gas lingered very badly from the
rear passenger tire area.  I have cleaned the lines
from the charcoal canister, looked inside the canister
and blown thru it.  It seemed to pass air fine.  I am
stumped as to where this could be coming from.  If I
drive the van for a bit it never smells of gas.  Any
ideas?
Thank you,
Corey Hoffman

87 westy
93 euro

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