odd things upon startup and a recall question for Nistech

[MinisterofDOOM]

First two questions are for my '93 with VG30E...

Lately I've been noticing a gasoline smell immediately after startup, but only on very cold days. The smell disappears quickly once I being driving, but it is pretty strong when it's there (if that makes sense). I've popped the hood when this has happened on a couple of occasions, and can find no drips, no leaks, and other than "engine compartment," no specific source of the smell. Is this a sign of failing injectors? Or is it simply a puff of unbuned gas being cycled on the first crank?

Next question is about an odd whirring, clicking sound that sometimes happens--again, only after startup, and again, the sound disappears after driving for a block or two. The sound seems to come from the instrument cluster. It's a sort of constant tapping/clicking accompanied by whirring. It's loud enough to be quite irritating while stopped, but just barely noticable while at normal neighborhood driving rpms. This one seems to have no relation to temperature, in case there was any confusion, there.

The last question is in regards to my dad's 2004 SE...I've heard that there was a recall on the rear subframe on the 6th gen. I have NOT heard if it is region-specific, year-specific, or anything else. NISTECH (or anyone) can you shed some light on this?

Thanks to anyone who can help.

[audtatious]

MoD, can't really help you on the other questions, but in regards to the '04 SE, the only recall was for the sky-roof. I also looked through TSB's for the '04 and there is nothing concerning the subframe nor suspension at all.

[MinisterofDOOM]

Well I figured out the recall thing. My dad got a letter about it and decided not to tell me. It has to do with salt used in certain snow belt states, and apparently Utah's not included (I'm very surprised, there).

[maxhopper]

In regards to the whirring noise you hear from your instrument cluster, check for loose or disconnected grounds.

For the gas smell that you are experiencing, check the fitting of clamps and connections (especially where rubber meets steel), the normal cycling of heat and cold will tend to loosen up clamps (particularly worm clamps). I have experienced this with my power steering hoses where they connect to the steering rack.