gas smell
 

I have an 87 560 sl and I noticed a strong gas smell after parking in the garage after driving. It lasts about 1 hour and dissipates. What could it be and what should I have checked. Thanks, david

Fuel line...just aft of the fuel pump.

Doesn't take much of leak...in fact you may not see one at all, except for some trace residue on the hose itself. But MAN it smells like you are performing baptismal services at Texaco! :eek:

I had this problem -- I was surprised to find that it was the gas cap.

It was allowing too much fuel to get into the overflow vent system. I had also been told that it was best not to top up a 560sl when fueling.

I did not have the problem all the time that is why I could not track it down -- also the smell was from up front -- As I could tell. It would come in through the acc vents!

In any event if you can any leaks in the hoses -- give the cap a try -- about $10.00 from MB

Two common problems are the gas cap and the EHA, which is attached to the fuel distributor under the air cleaner. If you can see it leaking, replace it.

After that, I would look at the rubber fuel lines in the fuel pump assembly.

And yes, don't top up the gas tank. I one time topped up the tank and drove home to add a bottle of Techron. When I removed the gas cap, about a pint of gasoline came shooting out.