YIKES!! 1988 300E Pressurized Gas Tank Problem
 

Hi folks,

About a month ago my 300E stopped suddenly and hasn't started since although it continues to turn over effortlessly. It's been parked all this time and I started working on it today. After a few attempts at starting I opened the gas tank filler cover and gasoline spewed out as if it were under pressure! The car is in the attached garage and I'm worried about how much gas might end up on the floor - fire hazard and all.

Can anybody explain this phenomenon? I've never experienced anything like it. Any suggestions on what to do?

Thanks in advance to all.

There is a check valve to allow the tank fumes to go into the charcoal canister. It is not opening and letting the fumes out of the tank and it builds up pressure. Have it replaced.

Thanks for the quick response!! I really appreciate it.

Do you mean OEM part number 0000900110 (Bosch 1.587.010.002/532) located at the fuel pump?

Lorne

I don't know any part numbers sorry. The one for the 126 body are located on the left side high up near the top of the fuel tank not anywhere close to the fuel pumps. It is a vapor check valve.

How much "pressure" is normal when releasing the gas cap? I know that mine always makes a pretty big pressure release...but I've never had gas spew out.

Could I have a problem also? Should there be any pressure release of gas?