1G Gas Tank Leaks

[Matthew Daize]

Hey there,

I am pretty new to the whole DSM scene, but so far I am very glad I am in

I own a champaign 1991 Eagle Talon TSi AWD that I bought just over a couple weeks ago!...

Recently, I have noticed that I am having problems with my gas tank as it leaks whenever its over a certain amount, and seemingling, only when the car is moving. I have a feeling that the leak could be near the filler neck seals, but I am unsure.

Anywho, this brings me to my question: Should I buy a new tank, renew my current tank, or just get a used one and ensure that it is sealed without any leaks?

If the latter of the three, Would a 1992 TSi AWD Gas tank fit on my 1991?

Any and all help is GREATLY appreciated!

Matthew

 

[toybreaker]

Welcome to the board!!!

A visual inspection should find your problem fairly quickly. I see you're from the frozen north, so you might be dealing with a rust issue.

Inspect the exterior of the tank from underneath the car. You're looking for a stain/discoloration/clean spot/trail. Check the filler tube carefully where it goes into the tank.

Another common problem is rust/corrosion on the top of the fuel tank itself. Dirt and debris like to collect there, and rust the top of the tank out.

Conviently enough, there's an access panel in the rear of the car that will allow you to inspect the top of the tank without removing it. Just lift the carpet up in the left rear of the cargo area, and you'll see a harness dissapearing down thru a black panel. Remove the two screws, and gently pry up on the panel. It's held on by glue/sealer, so be patient. You can push the fuel pump/sender harness grommet thru the panel, and then remove it.

You're now looking at the top of the tank.

The round plate with the hoses and harness going to it is the fuel pump/fuel gauge sender unit. Look carefully around it's base for leakage. Many times the hardware is severely corroded, and some of them may be broken from a previous fuel pump service. I usually brush all the dirt/debris away from the pump/sender unit, and shoot all the hardware with some pb blaster, to try and keep the corrosion under control.

If it looks dry there, check the return and vent hoses and the tank connection bungs for leakage.

Please, let us know what you find. Fuel leaks suck, and can be dangerous to you and your car.