Attention! Gasoline is highly flammable. Therefore, additional precautions must be taken when working on any part of the fuel system. Do not smoke or allow open flames or unprotected light fixtures near the work area. Do not work in rooms where gas appliances are present (e.g. water heaters or clothes dryers). Since gasoline is a carcinogen, try not to allow fuel to come into contact with exposed areas of the body. Wear fuel resistant gloves. If fuel comes into contact with the skin, the affected area should be washed immediately with soap and water. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately and do not store fuel-soaked rags where they could ignite. The fuel system is under constant pressure. Therefore, before disconnecting the fuel lines, it is imperative to relieve the fuel pressure in the system first. Wear safety goggles when doing any work on the fuel system. Keep a class B fire extinguisher handy at all times.
1. If you smell fuel while driving or after the vehicle has been in the sun, inspect the fuel system immediately.
2. Remove the fuel filler cap and inspect it for damage and corrosion. The gasket must not be damaged. If the gasket is damaged or shows signs of corrosion, remove it and install a new one (see paragraph 18).
3. Inspect fuel supply and return lines for cracks. Make sure that the flare nuts used to fasten the metal fuel lines to the fuel injection system components, and the hollow bolts used in the fittings of the type «banjo» (on in-line fuel filter).
4. Since some elements of the fuel system, such as the fuel tank and the fuel supply and return lines, are located under the vehicle, they are easier to inspect after the vehicle is raised on a lift. If this is not possible, raise the vehicle and place it on secure stands.
5. With the vehicle raised and not supported by secure supports, inspect the fuel tank and filler neck for punctures, cracks, or other damage. The connection between the filler neck and the tank plays a particularly important role. Sometimes the rubber filler neck leaks due to loose clamps or aging rubber. As a rule, a motorist can fix these problems on their own.
Attention! Under no circumstances should you attempt to repair the fuel tank (excluding rubber elements). A welding torch or any open flame can easily cause fuel vapors to explode inside the tank.
6. Carefully check all rubber hoses and metal pipes coming from the fuel tank. Check for loose connections, damaged hoses, flattened lines, or other damage. Carefully inspect the lines from the tank to the fuel injection system. Repair or replace damaged sections as needed (see chapter 4).