Strong fuel smell when cold.

[3Q Jay]

this is on the 94 active.

searched here:zerothread?id=161308difference is, i have no rough running--no hard starts.

if i turn the key on and let pump prime up the rails, i will notice a heavy smell after 30 sec or so (no start). don't see any dripping anywhere.

4 injectors hav been replaced in last 8k, but plenum has not been off for over 4k now. replaced fuel filter and the two fuel filter hoses during plenum job. replaced the 3 fuel rail shorty hoses during plenum job.

when driving and engine still warming up, i will pull in fuel smell if in econ mode (non-recirc). can also get it with windows cracked open--depending on wind.

not as noticeable when fully hot.

[goody90q45]

I had the same symptoms for over 6 months. She ran pretty good but had the same gas odor when warming up, especially when sitting at a stop light, along with poor gas mileage. No odor while moving. Turned out to be a leaky lower o-ring (not a leaky injector!) on FI #8. Easy fix (it could've been #7) and a huge improvement in engine performance.

If you're not seeing any hoses leaking or fuel rail leaks, then check your spark plugs. If one (or more) is fouled (black) it will lead you to the leaking port. Good luck.

Edit- Just looked at the thread you posted. Didn't realize it was the one I created for the same issue. Oops.

[3Q Jay]

hey Mike- i was thinking about your case, so thanks for chiming in. I just can't figure why a lower o-ring would pinch all of a sudden.

[maxnix]

Check 1994AustinQ45 for his posts on fuel hoses. My candidate for the raw fuel smell, expecially if htey have never been replaced.

[squeefoo]

When my Q needed the evil fuel lines at the back of the plenum, there were no drips at all, just seeping which evaporated immediately. Really stunk as you describe.

Shove the new hose on after you douse it with silicone, it makes it soft and weird so the hose *sticks* to the fuel rail. I used double fuel injector clamps on all joints and new FI hose. Aim the tension hex on the clamps so you can tighten them with the plenum on.... for the mandatory retightening after a week or two... and the once a year hose clamp tightening marathon.

[3Q Jay]

found the source--it is the #1 fuel rail to lower runner. haven't called for part yet, wanted to get a few more thoughts. in spite of the access of #1 injector, i'm not sure that i'm looking at an easy fix--assuming entire LH rail will have to come out? anyone seen this beofre? the#1 injector was replaced by dealer 18 mos ago before my purchase. i did not touch the LH fuel rail during plenum job last summer.