Date:         Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:46:19 -0700
Reply-To:     Keith Ovregaard <kovregaard@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Keith Ovregaard <kovregaard@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Fuel Tank Weirdness
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

After a third attempt to solve the slow filling syndrome, I came
across some weirdness in the venting of the tank. The Bentley shows
that the vent from the bottom of the charcoal filter goes to the air
cleaner, but the hose on mine goes up inside the frame above the tank
and makes a tight bend over a metal lip. The end was not connected to
anything, which means the fumes just vent into that space and then
into the atmosphere. Is that the way it is supposed to be?

Another interesting thing to note: removing the charcoal filter had no
effect on the slow-filling problem. Also, the vent line from the
charcoal filter to the filter control valve was kinked a bit. So was
the hose at the bottom of the filter. Un-kinking had no noticeble
effect. I blew some air into the charcoal canister and air did come
out the other end, so it appears to not be clogged. Some white stuff
blew out for a brief moment. Not sure what that was. Maybe some filter
media? I don't see any point in replacing it.

Another problem is that there is a slight smell of gas on the
passenger side coming from the rear wheel well. No gas dripping or any
wet spots, so I think there may be a problem with a vent line or
connection on top of the tank. Makes no difference if the tank is full
or half full.

Any suggestions from those of you who have BTDT?

Thanks

Keith O