exhaust/gas smell

[skynyrd7569]

I have a 97 gt with 134,000 miles. I have noticed a strong gas or exhaust smell while at idle and just after acceleration. The last work that was done was the transmission was replaced by a Pontiac dealer. Any ideas where to start? I looked tonight and do not see any leaks under the car or in the engine area. The smell is almost like CO.

[andretti]

The transmission repair is a big job and more than likely something was disturbed in the process. Take it back and let them do a recheck for you. Could be as simple as an exhaust leak.

[skynyrd7569]

I have found the source of my smell, When I got home tonight I pulled the engine cover and found that gas was spraying from the plastic fuel line that feeds the injectors. I just need to know if replacing these lines is a DYI or should I get a shop to work on fuel lines. If I have to replace one I should replace the other. I checked autozone and they did not have any fuel lines that connect the fuel rail.

[andretti]

You need special parts to repair them. At our shop we use a kit from DORMAN, 800-300 for the nylon lines.

Check with your local garage if they offer the line repairs.

[skynyrd7569]

Does anyone know where I can get the 2 nylon lines that connect tot e fuel rails on a 1997 GT? I called my local dealer and they say they are discontinued. I have a leak in the line the feed the rails and would like to replace the return line at the same time. also are there any special tools that are need to remove these? and do they run from the fuel rails to the filter or connect somewhere else? Thanks in advance.

[BNaylor]

Is the leak on the line or at the connector at the fuel rail? You can replace the o-ring seals at the connector if that is the source of the fuel leak. All you need is a fuel line disconnect tool which you can get at any auto parts store and the o-rings. I would not wait too long to get this repaired or don't run the car since you can get an underhood fire.

[skynyrd7569]

The leak is in the line its self just under the plastic hood.

[skynyrd7569]

I think I can get the connection from the fuel rail off with the tool, but how do i remove the lines where they connect to the steel lines that run to the tank? looks like its just the nylon line pushed onto the steel line but I am guessing they heat it to get it on.

[doctorhrdware]

I think that it has the same style connection that the fuel filter has.

[BNaylor]

The only advice I can provide is the right advice which is not to repair that fuel line but replace it in its entirety with OE GM either used (pull) or new. These are specially made and fitted fuel lines especially at the junction of the rubber and steel tubing portions and technically not repairable due to safety concerns and the amount of fuel pressure generated. The best thing to do is remove the complete fuel pressure and return lines intact, segments at a time. For example after relieving fuel pressure remove the pressure line at the fuel rail with the disconnect tool and then at the output of the fuel filter. Safely jack the car up (driver's side). Use jackstands. Remove the fuel line out of any retainer or clamps. The plastic retainer straps have a 8 or 10 mm bolt. There are several. Pull the fuel line down intact. Do the same for the return line which runs all the way to the fuel pump assembly or same for the pressure line input of the fuel filter back to the fuel pump assembly/gas tank.

[tblake]

Originally Posted by skynyrd7569

I have noticed a strong gas or exhaust smell while at idle and just after acceleration

Skynyrd - Ohh that smell... Can you smell that smell?


I'm still wondering if you should take it to the trans shop and see what they can do. They obviously moved the motor around a lot to get the trans out and probably ruptured the fuel line. Maybe they will replace the lines for free.

[BNaylor]

It depends on when the transaxle was replaced and whether it was warrantied plus days or type warranty on labor. Based on the age of this GP it could be classified as fair wear and tear. Not uncommon to get issues with the fuel lines after you do major engine or transaxle work. It won't hurt to see what they have to say about it. Regardless the issue should be resolved as soon as possible and done right!

[skynyrd7569]

I don't think the trans replacement had anything to do with the fuel line issue, the leak is on the upper part of the line in the straight section facing the alternator and seems to be a pin hole. I have had the car parked since I found the leak. I called the dealership to look for the parts and they say the lines have been discontinued, so I am like now what! I have a u-pull place close to the house, so I guess this is my next option, not sure if the lines can be spliced and repaired.

[BNaylor]

Check around. Send a PM to Richtazz or see what Ed Morad has. It is not that easy as splicing and repaired fuel lines since special tools are required. Just so you know there are fuel line repair kits available but they are not classified as DIY, trained auto techs only and cost $200 and up. Here is a video on the Dorman kit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjlGJhZ8UqE

[skynyrd7569]

Ok, I guess I am going to go the replacement route, does any one have the part numbers for the feeder and return lines? I can not find any part numbers on line and would rather buy new if possible than have to carry everything to a junk yard and work on uneven ground to remove the lines and take a chance on getting a weak line that will have to be replaced again. I swear if it was not for the new transmission I just put in this thing would take a jump off a cliff