Well, whether it is a 1980 or a 1991 van, and whether a camper or not, and whether the engine is an original or a Subaru, it sounds like (not clear on that point) that the leak was at a connection, either pump to hose, or hose to filter, or perhaps that the hose had a hole in it.  Pressure differences and temperature differences can alter a leak.  So, it might leak on startup, but not all the time when running.

Fix it.  mcneely

---- Scott Daniel - Turbovans <scottdaniel@TURBOVANS.COM> wrote:
> Hi,
> I'm guessing 'canister' means large round sliver fuel filter downstream
> of the fuel pump ...........???
> It always helps if people say what year, version and model they are
> working on. .
>
> an engineer famously once said 'It is the nature of fluids to leak."
>
>
> On 8/23/2012 9:56 PM, Troy wrote:
> > Hi folks:
> >
> > While pulling out of the garage today I noticed a stream of gas on the floor. Upon closer inspection under the van, the area between the fuel pump and canister was leaking. I shut the van off and let the gas dry, checked the hose and clamps, and everything appeared to be fine. Started the van up, and could not get the thing to leak no way no how. Let it run for about 20 min.. I'm not sure what a normal amount of noise is for the fuel pump. I can certainly hear the fuel flowing through it, and it does its normal buzzing when I turn the key. I did have the gas tank worked on about two weeks ago, so I'm guessing it's somehow related.
> >
> > I have a spare pump and some new hose, so will probably go ahead and have it replaced, but could anyone shed a little light on why it may have been leaking, and suddenly stop. A leak is a leak right? Never a dull day with a Vanagon.
> >
> > Thanks!
> >
> > Troy
> >

--
David McNeely