Gas smell around gas tank

[Mark Fresa]

Hi all.
Have had a smelly gas tank for a while now, only notice it when the tank is less than 3/4 full, could it be the evap control valve? Got a new cap, and crank it three clicks, it seems to be holding pressure just fine.
Car is a 97 with 220K miles on it. Runs like a spanked dog (no disrespect to dogs I love 'em).
Thanks for any clues on this one.

[bobdec]

If you can find any fuel leaks it could be a broken hose in the EVAP system or may be a charcoal canister. Operation.. Gas fumes pressurize tank when fuel warms up.. at about 1 lb or so a check valve opens and lets fumes into charcoal cannister where they are stored.. when engine starts up EVAP solinoid opens and fumes are sucked into intake and burned up. You should never smell any gas odor if system is sealed and working. There is a safety pressure relief valve in case pressure in tank gets excessive that vents out near the canister , it's a rare possibility that valve is open.

[TSAEB]

i just removed my evap canister and notice that the lines are super easy to pop out. old , dirty, beat up and can crack. Check the cap is fully closed, then removed the cover in the driver side rear beside the tire. behind that panel is the evap canister. make sure all the lines are good and connected. then check the ones that run up the gas tank and connect to the fully pump assembly lines.

[Mark Fresa]

I'll definitely follow your advice.
Saw that the cover around the gas cap is easily removed. Good project for Saturday.
Thanks again.

Mark