Fuel tank leak: How fix?

[mitsi88]

Hi all,

My '97 v8 has sprung a fuel tank leak. Photos attached I hope. Photos are taken on the right hand side behind the rear wheel. Looks like fuel is seeping from a plug of some sort on top of the tank. Can anybody advise what this plug? is and what needs to be done to rectify?

Cheers

[TEMPL4R]

Someones had the tank out and trapped that pipe. It's under the strap, it should be over it.

It looks like its wet from the rubber support block and coming this way. I would say the pipe needs taking out and looking at, it's probably got a pin hole or split in it, or the tank connection is disturbed by stress from the trapped pipe.

I assume it's a return pipe? I haven't had a lot to do with the V8s, we only trade in Diesel Discoverys.

Someone can claify which pipe it is.

Chris

[mitsi88]

Chris, thanks for pointing out that the pipe appears to be trapped under the strap. Like you I assume its a return pipe - anybody know?

I had the truck running yesterday and it was 'hissing' from the plug/bung after I turned it off - it would stop when I put alittle pressure on it with my hand.

Anybody replaced one of these before (whatever it is)? The last thing I want do is to drop the tank to repair...

Cheers

Trev

[JulesV8]

Hi There,

I've just had a look at the manual and trying to see what your pics depict...it does look like it could be the breather pipe.

From the manual there are 3 pipes which go to the tank. the filler pipe, the breather pipe and the fuel return pipe. The filler pipe is the big fat one, the breather is soft and apparently the return is a rigid pipe.

Before you take things apart, can you see if all the unions are tight? Other question, did you overfill your tank?

Hope this helps identify the source,

J

[edh]

There is a factory recall on 1996 DISCO'S fuel tanks, at least in Canada. Perhaps this recall covers your vehicle.

[mitsi88]

H Jules,

I went and had a look last night. I dont think the strap is a problem as the pipe in question sits in a slot that passes under the trap. I think you are right - it is a breather as a thin soft pipe leads fron the plug in the photos back towards the filler where you put the pump bowser.

And yes, the tank was full when I noticed the leak! The tank is now just over 3/4. I took the truck for a spin last night - no hissing or seeping when I got back. I assume its just a dodgy seal. You can get your hand onto the seal no problems, so I assume it could be replaced without removing the whole tank. Doesnt look like it can be tightened though...

Cheers

[streaky]

There is a factory recall on 1996 DISCO'S fuel tanks, at least in Canada. Perhaps this recall covers your vehicle.

Mine is a 98' and I was also given a new tank under the recall.
The problem was to do with the rubber seals that the breather pipe passes through.
It would be worth mentioning this to your local Rover dealer...they will advise. The tank should be fitted by them as well. I had mine done last year or the year before...can't remember exactly.

[JulesV8]

Glad its not a major thing - it was probably leaking due to being super full... though on the filler cap they do say - DO NOT OVERFILL - I guess this is why!

Tell us how you get on with the recall business, I have a 96 and do sometimes walk round the rear thinking to myself that she has got quite a strong smell of petrol...my breather seal might be shot.

cheers

Jules