What prevents a fuel system from leaking?
Fuel leakage is a dangerous and wasteful problem for a vehicle. Manufacturers know this and to combat the problem, they have implemented a number of simple ways to prevent fuel from leaking from the fuel system: ...
Fuel leakage is a dangerous and wasteful problem for a vehicle. Manufacturers know this and to combat the problem, they have implemented a number of simple ways to prevent fuel from leaking from the fuel system:
O-rings: small rings made of rubber or similar flexible material. They are extremely useful in preventing fluid leakage from lines, hoses and fittings. In the fuel system, o-rings are used to prevent fuel from leaking around the fuel injectors.
Gaskets: Rubber seals that precisely fit the contour of the part to which they are attached. For example, a gasket between the fuel tank and the fuel pump prevents leaks because it is designed to seal the perimeter of the hole in the gas tank where the pump is attached.
Hard gas lines: Many vehicles use rigid fuel lines that are stronger than rubber hoses because they last for a long period of time and can withstand being constantly under a moving vehicle. The fuel system also uses rubber hoses, but these are in accessible locations where they can be inspected regularly.
Despite all this, gas leaks do happen. The gas is dangerous as a liquid and also releases dangerous vapours. A leak must be repaired as soon as it is discovered.
