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Gasoline Odor

  • Thread starter Thread starter PardonMe4687
  • Start date Start date
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PardonMe4687

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Forgive me if this is in the wrong forum, but I didn't know where else to pose the question.

Ever since rejetting and tuning my carbs, after letting the motorcycle sit in the garage overnight, the garage REEKS of gasoline. Sometimes I can even notice the smell inside the house after coming home from work.

Any ideas as to why this might be?

Thanks!
 
My guess is that a float level is too high and your getting a bit of overflow. Check your oil level too to make sure the gas is not filling the crankcase.
 
fbody_mike said:
My guess is that a float level is too high and your getting a bit of overflow. Check your oil level too to make sure the gas is not filling the crankcase.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the quick reply! I'll check both of these things out.
 
There's also a vent in the gas cap. With the hot weather, the gas expands and fumes vent out the cap. Is your tank full while it's in the garage? I notice a stronger smell when mine has just been topped off and put away, especially in the summer.
 
When you check the fuel level measure it directly, not the float height. There is info on the site on how to make some fuel level gauges. It's pretty simple to make some.
 
Everything said below + a much more subtle problem. I had used aftermarket bowl gaskets (still do) but discovered at proper torque specs the gas was seeping and evaporating leaving no trace of leaking but leaving a strong gas smell all the time. I had changed over to SS Alan bolts for the bowls and figured they would take more torque (within reason). They did and the fuel smell went away with an added bonus. Before, I couldn't let my bike sit for more than three days without priming. Now, it can sit for a week or more without a problem. My float levels are spot on motor off or on.
 
Leaky petcock is quite possible, too.

How's your oil level? If you've magically manufactured more oil, then gas has gotten into the engine and is diluting the oil.
 
I too get the gas expansion stink when I would park my bike in the garage after filling up the tank to near the top especially when it is warmer out. I have dealt with this by making sure I don't park it witha full but rather 2/3 full tank. I have also found my petcock leaking ever so little from time to time. Whe this has happened I tighten up the securing bolts a tad and it usually solved the problem.
 
Mr.humbucker said:
I have also found my petcock leaking ever so little from time to time. When this has happened I tighten up the securing bolts a tad and it usually solved the problem.
Click to expand...
Instead of tightening, replace the petcock washers. The washers seal against the petcock holes and the bolt threads. They are easy to damage especially when old and not expensive to replace.
 
Turns out the petcock was the culprit. Fuel was leaking out of the vacuum port, down the hose, and out of carb #2. Replaced the petcock, and voila, no more smelly garage. (Though I kind of like the smell, the wife does not)
 
I recently bought some dowty washers, rubber center and metal outer makes for a good seal for the petcock bolts.
 
steve murdoch said:
Did you go with a stock petcock or aftermarket?
If aftermarket, which one?
Click to expand...

Due to limited funds, I opted to go for the unbranded ebay version. So far I have no complaints. Two weeks on and no leaks, and no more gasoline smell. I'll report back if any issues arise.
 
PardonMe4687 said:
Turns out the petcock was the culprit. Fuel was leaking out of the vacuum port, down the hose, and out of carb #2. Replaced the petcock, and voila, no more smelly garage. (Though I kind of like the smell, the wife does not)
Click to expand...

Just FYI, gasoline is at its most explosive and combustible state as a vapor.
 
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