Leak in fuel line? Repair or replace line?

[bstone]

'93 Ford Explorer XLT
4WD, 4dr

After a few weeks of smelling gas fumes coming from my car, and after a weekend road trip where I was obviously getting bad gas mileage, I believe I have a fuel line leak. I do not think the tank itself is leaking as I only notice a leak when the engine is on and when it is off and I turn it on 24 hours later I have the same amount of gas.

Might there be any benefit to replacing the entire line? Sans that, repair?

Being a newbie, this is my attempt of repair procedure:
1) Idenfity the exact spot of leak on fuel line
any suggestions on how? even how to identify the fuel line

2) Use a tubing cutter to remove the section of tube which is leaking
ibid

3) Take said tubing to car parts store and get a replacement section
ibid

4) Use a compression bolt to secure new tubing in place
ibid

How does this sound?

Stone

 

[the boo]

are you sure it is a leak?iI had fuel smell from 94 EXP and was told it was my canister purge solenoid,I hope to fix mine this weekend if I can find it!!!

 

[ExplorerDMB]

Messing with fuel lines and brake lines are sometimes tricky. You have to do them right or you'll have major problems. To check for a fuel line leak -- basically just take off your gas cap (relieve the pressure), then take off your fuel filter and then blow compressed air (just a little) down the line to see where leak is coming from. You should be able to hear/find it. If not, you may not have a leak in the fuel lines. I would not use a compression fitting because they sometimes do not seal right.

-Drew

 

[merc2dogs]

If it only leaks when running, it's likely a return line, climb under the truck where you can see the lines, and have someone turn the key on, and look quickly so you can see it in the short time the pump runs, or block the truck, start it and look under it should be able to see it easily.

also, if it is a return line, there's no real pressure, so in that case I'd feel comfortable using a compression fitting.
I agree with the earlier warning about them not always sealing, so I'd double check the seal.
of course if the lines rusty or crap anyway, change it.

ken.