Failed Emissions for Evap Pressure Test

[sljorge]

Took my '92 I4 DLX to the Arizona Emissions Center today and passed all emissions tests well:

HC = 0.61 (limit 1.0)
CO = 3.90 (limit 12.0)
NOX = 1.23 (limit 2.5)

But I failed the fuel evap system pressure test!

I had a sinking suspicion I would fail. Since I bought the car in July of '07, whenever I top off the fuel, I can smell gasoline!

The guys at the Emissions Center said I need a 'smoke test' to find the leak. Is there a way to do this at home?

Has anyone seen (or smelled) this before? How do I fix it?


Thanks in advance,

-Leaking Fuel in Arizona

[JohnGD]

You need to check all rubber hoses and fuel pipes to make sure none are leaking. Sounds like maybe the filler pipe or other hoses/pipes are leaking. I hope it's not a cracked tank.

Sure smoke test doesn't mean they light a match, but rather use a smoke generator. Should help point out the leak. I'll let the pros check out the fuel system.

[sljorge]

take a look at this...

Major fuel leak from gas tank

[jmborchers]

1) Stop topping off the tank when you go for gas. You are likely getting gas into the charcoal cannister.
2) Start by replacing the gas cap with a dealer's cap. I had changed a 99 Camry to Autozone cap and it's relief point is different than what it needs to be.

Just about any auto shop has a smoke machine. I have one at home. Used it to find out the gas cap was the leak point.