Leaking fuel tank - where to start

[miks15]

Hey guys,

I've had my touring for a few months now, the other day I filled the tank up and noticed that it was leaking from around the fuel tank area somewhere. I went for a hours drive or so to try and get some fuel out of the tank and after this is didn't seem to leak.

Is it common for these tanks to leak, especially when full to the brim? Any common places to look first?

Can I get good access to the top of the tank from under the rear seat? Hoping to have a look over the weekend and just want some ideas on where to start!

Cheers,

[paultv]

Its VERY likely to be the breather hose that runs from the top of the tank back to the top of the filler elbow - it only leaks when the tank is full or very nearly full.

The connection on the top of the tank often fails, rubber or welded pipe on the tank - either way take the back seat out and open the left hand inspection cover (if you are in the car looking towards the rear of the car ) You'll see the largest hose connected to a small pipe dissappearing towards the rear also - check the condition of the pipe at the clip - if you are lucky just the pipe is split and there is enough slack to cut the damaged end of the hose off and make good.

If the tanks outlet pipe has rusted away - it's time for a new tank and if the rubber hose is beyond repair you need a new one - it's a bit of a pig to get the old one out and the cover for the hose that runs past the rear suspension is often totally rotten.

Paul

[miks15]

Thanks Paul,

I'll whip that cover off first then and take a look, hopefully something simple!