Petrol smell

[Matbmx1]

Right just a quicky,
ive noticed a smell of petrol coming from my E30 318i ive also noticed a bit of petrol on the bottom of the tank im not really sure where its coming from just wondering if anyone else has had the same thing? havent had a really good look yet looks like it might be a leaking pipe

cheers

[eko]

If you have noticed loose petrol around the tank,then its probably the filler neck on the tank itself,if so time for a new one im afraid!

[Matbmx1]

Cheers man is there an easy way to check this? and how much are new tanks?

[smithy318i]

A common fault with all E30 fuel tanks is the section next to the filler neck rusting away.

you can attempt to repair the hole (if you can get to it) or replace the whole tank (which is a Sh!tty Job)

[smithy318i]

a new tank from ECP is about 90 quid iirc.

[smithy318i]

you should also check the fuel pump area for leaking pipes. (this is located under the rear seat, drivers side inspection cover) and also check the fuel pump rubber seal too.

[jcjdavis1]

I got a new fuel tank from GSF for £93.40.Difficult job without use of pit or high beamers.

[slinky]

It's a pretty nasty job. I've just replaced my metal brake lines from front to back as they were badly corroded. This included taking out the petrol tank. You'll need to take off the exhaust and prop shaft to get the tank out. Not much fun when you don't have a pit and a sloping drive way! Oh well saved me 8 hours labour costs plus parts at the garage!
Having said that, if you have a decent set of 4 axle stands and can get the car high enough off the ground it's case of unbolting all the items. Relatively straight forward just need a bit of patience and a cheater bar to get the prop shaft nuts off!

[Matbmx1]

Yeah cheers for the advice boys, i think it prob does need replacing got a mate who used to be a mechanic so will have to try and get him to help out, Ill check the fuel pump as well.

thanks a lot guys