Trimmer: Leaks Gas

The fuel filter stops foreign objects and dirt from entering the engine, damaging it. If your unit has an external fuel filter instead of an internal one in the tank, it could be leaking. To locate, just follow the fuel line from tank to carburetor and there will be a small round filter. Check for cracks, as well as the fuel line seals at the entrance and exit of fuel filter. If there are any indications of a leak you must replace the filter. Check for an arrow indicating the flow of fuel. You do not want to put it in backwards as it may stop or slow down the rate of fuel. The fuel filter is usually exposed for easy access.

The primer bulb pulls fuel through the fuel line into the carburetor by creating a vacuum. This allows the engine to start easier when cold. Pressing it twice should be sufficient. When the rubber dries out it can crack, causing the primer bulb to leak fuel. Check the primer bulb for any leaks. This is easy, as you can just do a quick visual inspection and it should be noticeable. If you notice the smell of fuel or see fuel dripping from the bulb, you must replace it. It can also pull air in if cracked, affecting the fuel/air ratio in the carb. To replace it, simply pull it off with a pair of pliers. Next, use a small pick to reach back into where the bulb came off, grab the clip, and pull out. Clean out the housing. Put the new clip on the primer bulb with tabs facing out. Using a socket that fits over the primer bulb, push into the housing and tap gently with a rubber mallet. Make sure the metal clip is as far as it can go without damaging the primer bulb. This could vary on different models but most are similar.

The fuel tank stores the fuel for the engine. A crack in a fuel tank will cause a leak. Leaks are common at the seams of the tanks. If you notice a leak or any dampness, indicating the start of a bigger leak, and you smell fuel, replace the tank. Drain the tank first then remove the fuel lines. Removing the fuel lines may differ on certain models, some attach on the outside while others are fed through a grommet into the tank. Remove any bolts or clips holding the tank in place, and re-assemble with new a tank. Then add fuel.

The gas cap stops fuel from leaking out and keeps contaminants from entering the tank. Leaks can be caused by a crack in the gas cap due to vibration, as well as a worn-out O-ring. You can simply replace the gas cap, or if you suspect it is an O-ring issue, you can remove the O-ring with a small screw driver and install a new one of the exact same size.

The grommet provides a seal for the fuel line and vent line to enter the tank. A quick visual inspection will tell you if the grommet is leaking. Over time the fuel will break down the rubber grommet and you will need to replace the grommet. If you notice a leak or feel dampness around the grommet, replace it. First drain the tank. Insert a flat screwdriver under the lip of the grommet on the tank and pull up, remove the gas cap and insert a hook into the tank and pull the fuel line up, remove the fuel filter then pull the fuel line and fuel vent line out of the grommet. Replace the grommet by pushing a new one into place. Spray inside of the grommet with a lubricant to allow easier assembly of the fuel lines. Install the new grommet into the tank by pushing it into place. Re-install the fuel filter and add fuel.

The fuel lines deliver the fuel from the tank to the carburetor. Old, weathered, and cracked fuel lines will leak and should be replaced immediately. Any loose fuel clamps should be tightened. Some fuel lines are pressure fitted on. You can fix this by cutting a small bit off the end and pushing it back onto the connection. To replace fuel lines, just twist and pull off where they connect to the tank. Fuel lines are easily replaceable as they are exposed on the trimmer.