Gas drip from tank

Hello everyone,

I replaced my gas tank last year, no problems until now. I filled it up to the top for the winter sleep...then noticed the smell of gas. Low and behold, there was a drip coming from the pipe connecting to the gas tank (at the brass fitting). It has been sitting for the last week, sometimes it drips, sometimes it doesn't. I tightened the nut down, still periodically drips. Should I consider putting some teflon tape on the threads? Any ideas would be appreciated.

Russ

I'm not sure about teflon tape, would it dissolve in gas? I'm pretty sure that permatex makes a thread sealant paste that's suitable.Are you sure all the parts are clean and not cross threaded? ,and are there supposed to be seals there? Hope this helps, Mike

YES

I don't think the threads are crossed, the nut seemed to go on easily.

When you say "YES", do you mean Teflon tape or seals?

Thanks.

Russ. No. Do not use Teflon tape at this connection.

This is a ball and seat fitting, not a threaded fitting. Teflon tape should only be used to seal on pipe thread. It can be used as a lubricant to prevent threads binding in other applications, but not as a sealant.

The best bet is to loosen the nut, pull the end of the pipe out of the fitting on the tank and check both sealing surfaces for any deformations or debris. If there is a problem, you can try polishing it out with emery cloth. If it is clean, float the line end back into the fitting, making sure it seats snuggly, then re-tighten the nut. Try to do this with your fingers crossed.

It'll seal up properly, but you have to believe. If you worry about it, guaranteed it will leak again.

It's one of those British car magic things

kelvin

I have the same problem with the new tank i installed last year. My vent line to the carbon canister was plugged and when the car warms up in the garage and the pressure in the tank goes up there is a small leak at that fitting. The solder joint between the tank and 90 degree fitting is good but pooly soldered to the threaded piece for the tube to the pump. Just another winter project.