My '85 380SE has been smelling of gasoline lately and this afternoon I discovered why. Just aft of the rear axle there is a location where several lines attach to the fuel tank. One is about 3/4" or so and goes directly to the fuel pump assembly, I am assuming that this is where the fuel EXITS the tank. The second connection is the one I suspect of leaking, and it is a smaller diameter, apparently braided covered rubber, and it connects to the tank via a connector that appears to be permanently attached to the hose and threads into a fitting. The other end is connected to a 7 or 8 mm metal tube via a standard looking hose clamp. This line is only about 10" long or so and appears to be easily removed/ replaced. I suspect that it is a return line for the fuel injection system but am appreciative of enlightenment.

BENZMAC, I thank you for your earlier, prompt response concerning my suspension noise, I will check out the suspect joints with my trusty stick stetho at the earliest convenience.

The first large hose you spoke of is the fuel supply directly from the tank.(you were right in your assumption). The second small diameter hose is a return line from the accumulator. It is there on the nitrogen charged side of the accumulaor diaphram in case the diaphram inside fails. The hose will return the fuel to the main line and not cause a fire hazard. Be careful when servicing this yourself for this is an always pressurized system via the accumulator.

I'm about to take off the back panel covering this area from inside the trunk on my '83 SD and now I wonder if my SD has a pressurized fuel system / accumulator that I need to watch out for? Does the diesel fuel tank get altogether different hoses or is it pretty similar to a '85 380SE?

This system is different from the gas models there is no accumulator. The tank can be drained from a strainer at the end of the supply line at the tank.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM