Gas Leaking Around Gas Cap

[okie2ee]

I finally found the source of my gas smell when riding, the plastic tray surrounding the gas cap is wet with gas. I filled the tank today and rode home and the tray was wet with gas. The gas cap appears to be sealing properly based on feel only. Is this common to have to replace the rubber gasket on the gas cap? Or is the gas coming from somewhere else............thanks

[bellboy40]

It could very well be leaking from the fuel petcock. It is vacuum operated and has a rubber diaphragm inside that is prone to developing a leak sometimes. It is the unit right in front of the gas cap that has the gas lines going to it. If it is what is leaking, you can purchase a rebuild kit to repair it. Cyclemax in Ohio is one place to get it.
https://cyclemax.com/inc/sdetail/gl1500 ... _kit/20457

[NOVAwing]

I second the fuel petcock valve.

Parts are cheap and its easy to rebuild if your handy.

[okie2ee]

Thank you for the feedback...............I've ordered a petcock rebuild kit

[RBGERSON]

Yep there is a weep hole in that unit...singalong you need to rebuild!!

[bluthundr31]

Troubleshooting/checking the fuel petcock is probably your best bet to resolve the issue, , , , but, , , since you commented about the gas cap, , , soak that gas cap in a vinegar solution for a couple hours and watch all the rust/crud that comes out, , , , blow it dry with compressed air then lube (WD40) well so the springs and tabs work smoothly.

[Scaldedchevy]

Hello. I am having the same issue now. I will be ordering a rebuild kit. One question, do I need to drain the fuel cell before I pull the petcock off, or will it not have gas coming through unless the fuel pump is cycling?

Thanks
James

[MikeB]

No need to drain the tank. The tank is below where you will be working and fuel will not flow uphill.
There will probably be a bit of fuel in that auto shut off valve but not much. Just have a few shop towels in fuel filler tray to catch that little excess fuel in the shut off valve.

[Scaldedchevy]

Awesome, thank you very much.
James