Fuel leak - how can I find it SAFELY!

[codymorris]

I have just acquired the 88' 325is from my moms b/f, so now I have to fix all the problems, major one being the fuel you can smell from a leak when you drive. Is there a way for me to find it and address the problem, maybe even fix it myself, or should I take it to a shop to have this done. I can find my way anywhere on a car and fix just about anything, having done some extensive projects on past cars, but fuel has never been something to address other than the fuel pump. Any help would be appreciated on steps to take. Thanks. (someone told me if a crack is in the line, some j.b.weld or something similar would seal the crack?)

[codymorris]

Should fuel be emptied out of tank to prevent me from getting "toasted"?

[ironman502]

Generally, if you don't see a puddle on the ground, open the hood and follow your nose. Do not use a match to provide lighting in dark areas. With the hood open, have someone activate the fuel pump while you examine the fuel lines in the engine compartment. Often you will find a rubber hose that has become brittle and leaks under pressure. If it is one of the rubber hoses, I think you can just go to an automotive supplies store and find a similar piece of hose.