It not that likely to catch fire as there isn't much to spark up there and
air flow while driving will dilute the fumes. But it does need to be fixed
promptly and do not put it in your garage. There are a number of places that
can leak including the top of the tank eroding from road debris rubbing
between the tank and frame. Have the tank dropped and replace inspect
everything. After assembly the tank and vapor system should be pressure
tested.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Troy
Sent: Friday, July 06, 2012 1:39 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: fuel tank seals

Hi folks:

I think I already know the answer to this, but here goes anyway. I had some
stainless steel coolant pipes installed about a month ago, and the shop
dropped the fuel tank a little bit as instructed by Van Cafe' to allow
better access for the pipes. Ever since the stainless steel coolant pipe
install, I've been smelling gas. I figure that the seals were probably
disturbed from the vapor recovery system. The mechanics mentioned he saw
some rotted ends on the fuel lines and trim them and reattached. I don't
know if there's hose barbs or what as I've never seen one close up.

After filling up tonight, I most certain have a leak. I think I got a good
quart of fuel that overflowed on the ground, and dripping off the gas tank.
I wasn't sure if I should even drive the thing at that point, but what to
do. Had a full load of groceries, and needed to get home.

Is there a danger of this catching on fire or am I safe to drive it to the
shop tomorrow? I am kind of inclined to have a tow truck pick it up. Bad
news is there's a full tank of gas there, minus the quart that went on the
ground--talk about gas fumes, whew!

Troy