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Midlife and Depends

Midlife

Midlife

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Today, during my maintenance drive, I noticed that the gas gauge is reading 3/4 full, despite the fact that I've only driven 30 miles since I filled the tank. Hmmm...go home, wait for everything to cool down, and I find a small puddle of fuel under the rear. It's not the fuel line that's leaking, but the drain plug on the passenger side! I tried tightening it up (it moved only a smidgen), so I'll have to keep an eye on things.

This is a new tank, and with it being nearly full, it may be a while before I can drain it and see what's going on. Meanwhile, is there a gas-resistant sealant that I can use on the threads when I pull the plug and re-insert it?
 
I have used regular thread tape.

Problem is the tank will drain long before you get enough miles on it to be able to do the repair.......
 
"Midlife" said:
This is a new tank, and with it being nearly full, it may be a while before I can drain it and see what's going on. Meanwhile, is there a gas-resistant sealant that I can use on the threads when I pull the plug and re-insert it?
Click to expand...

There is a Teflon tape that is gas-resistant. I believe it's yellow.
 
This stuff works good on gas tanks to fix holes and such. You could wad some over the fitting till you use up the fuel.
513J3AF3DSL._SS500_.jpg
 
I had the same problem. I did not use teflon tape. I used some permatex stuff that is fuel resistant. There are 2 different types... one sets up hard, and the other stays pliable. I believe I used the pliable stuff.

Here's a link: Permatex.

You should be able find it at a reputable auto parts store.
 
Thanks. Looks like Form-a-Gasket #3 seems most suitable for thread protection leaks.
 
"garner67" said:
I had the same problem. I did not use teflon tape. I used some permatex stuff that is fuel resistant. There are 2 different types... one sets up hard, and the other stays pliable. I believe I used the pliable stuff.

Here's a link: Permatex.

You should be able find it at a reputable auto parts store.
Click to expand...

+1, the pliable stuff works fine for me, no issues.
 
Ditto on Permatex... try or check with manufacturer but the Ultra Black RTV Maximum Oil Resistance Silicone Gasket Maker stuff should do the trick. Clean the plug and tank threads with lacquer thinner or brake parts cleaner and apply the Permatex to the plug threads and torque. Should be good.
 
I just checked after 1.5 days of the car sitting, and a paper towel to the plug seems dry, although it has a smell of gas.

I wonder if there is a pin-hole higher up on the tank that allows a leak when I fill the tank? Hmmmm...

Anyone got a match so I can improve my vision of what's going on?
 
I will drop one off......

Could be a seam leak. Any smell inside the car......of gas that is?
 
No smell of gas in the car. I agree...the seam seems like a likely suspect!

Next step is to remove the spare and mat from the trunk and do a good inspection.
 
You also might want to review your fire exit plan, fire ext. placement, and you smoking policy of the garage.......
 
I wonder about evil plotting by SWMBO to get at the life insurance monies...
 
Yesterday, I confirmed that the gas tank is leaking via weeping through the gas tank plug threads. I applied colored powder over the area after drying everything first, and the thread next to the bung began to discolor. Now to be patient as I drive the car to get the tank down from 12 gallons to a more manageable 4-5 gallons. Then, I will drain the tank, apply thread sealer to the pipe threads, and re-insert the plug.
 
"Midlife" said:
Now to be patient as I drive the car to get the tank down from 12 gallons to a more manageable 4-5 gallons. Then, I will drain the tank, apply thread sealer to the pipe threads, and re-insert the plug.
Click to expand...

So.......next Labor Day we should plan to fix the tank.........
 
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