I am trying to isolate the source of a strong gasoline smell for a 88 Mercury Tracer, 1.6L engine. It is my sister-in-law's car. She has had the gas tank removed and inspected. I have inspected the engine and fuel lines beneath the car. We are both exasperated at this point. With the windows rolled up and standing still it does not smell. However, once moving forward at 40mph or so, when either window is cracked the smell comes in.
I speculated the smell was being drawn in from beneath the car because of lowered air pressure with the window down. Upon removing the back seat and taking off the plate which covers the fuel pump, there is a raw gasoline smell. The fumes are probably able to rise unencumbered without the plate and seat.
Hoses going to the fuel tank were inspected by the guy who removed the tank. The fuel pump was not removed to inspect the gasket. The source seems to be right there where the fuel pump is. No leaks are evident, though. There may be a leak at the front of the car, and fumes could be traveling back, but I don't think that's what it is.
Is this a venting problem? A leak? Any ideas would be appreciated. She needs to drive home and doesn't want to go 'til we find the problem. Thanks
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