MatraSport Forum

Hi all,

Here I am again with another problem with my lovely Espace  :(

Some days ago I notice a petrol smell when parking (with window open). I checked the engine and it seemed to me like the smell came from it  :o :o ... but a later check showed that it seems to come from the tubing from petrol tank to engine.

My reasoning is this: I have discarded tank, as when I take out the tank plug, it keeps doing the usual noise as petrol vapour pressure has build up and it is released. Then, I have discarded return pipe as smell lasts for a while even with engine stopped 3 or 4 hours (so I guess there is residual pressure still on it, which continue the leak for some time). It seems not a big leak, as there is no dipping from it nor any noticeable fuel lose but, definitely, something is not OK (I have the car since 2005 and know it  ;) ). And then, another strong hint is that car needs more cranking to start that it did some time ago. So I would say there is a pinhole-like leak or crack somewhere from the fuel pump to the engine (BTW, I visually checked fuel filter and it seemed OK)

Has anyone experience a similar leak?. Am I right with my simple diagnosis?. I am planning on taking the car to Renault and ask for replacement of both tubes (including return), as they are now almost 13 years old and, well, I don't want to end burst in flames  ;)

Your opinion and thoughts, please?

Thanks!

JOSE

look at this one, something like that ? http://www.matrasport.dk/forum/index.php/topic,2232.0.html

Yes!!!. It seems my search ability is not up to par  ;)

It should be the same, as effectively, I have found that the smell is stronger close to the rear part of the Espace, at the filler cap side. So all seems to mach  :D

Anders, if you are reading this, could you let me know how much was the new fuel pump?. In my case it seems to work fine... or not, as it takes some crank time to start (but perhaps this is due to the leak?)

Regards and big thanks,

JOSE

When you have a leak in this fuel line it will take a little longer to build up the required fuel pressure than a sealed system already pre-pressurised. So what you experience seems normal and will probably be okay after repair.

Hi José, yes that sounds exactly like my problem back in june. Tom is correct that the pump is not the problem as such, but since the problem is that the outlet is breaking off, there's no other way around the problem than to replace the complete pump assembly. The slow starting is due to the fuel leak.

The pump was about 200€ as far as I remember, but Renault wanted a lot more, so I ended up with an OEM found on eBay.

Here's one: http://www.ebay.de/itm/230686220814

The fuel tubes are probably fine, no need to replace those.

Good luck, José!

/Anders

Hello Anders,


OK, thanks for all the info :) !

I see that seller send only to Germany  ??? . I will ask anyway.

Regarding the works, did you use an elevator, a ramp set or what?

Regards,

JOSE

Yes, do ask. They are usually willing to ship anywhere, but just don't bother to put the shipping costs on the auction.
I wouldn't use ramps as they get in the way whey you dismantle the filler hose. It's quite difficult to get it off. A lift/elevator is best, but I managed to do the job only lifting the rear about 50 cm. The working position is quite awkward, but it's doable.

Two suggestions:

- Run the car until you are certain there's less than 10 litres of petrol in it. The tank is surprisingly heavy and fuel splashes out easily from the filler connection as you move it around.

- With the tank still on the car but the fuel filler hose removed, take a latex glove or two or similar and draw it over the filler connection on the tank. Put a tie strip around it to secure it. This will prevent fuel from spilling out as you move the tank around.

Also, read the instructions in the workshop manual carefully. Getting the lock ring back on the tank is difficult. Getting it off is too. If I am to do it again, I'd leave it to a garage. It's not a difficult job, it's just too messy for me :(

/Anders

I added alternative repaired in link.

Well, just a short update... I bought the pump (BOSCH) from an online car parts seller. I got it in a week or so anf then took the Espace to the mechanic. They replaced it and charged just 50 EUR for the job  :o

Definitely worth the money!

Best regards and Merry Christmas,

JOSE

PS: I kept the old one, just in case I decide to try to fix it  ;)

Hooray! Great to hear you're running again, Jose!
And it's a great mechanic you have there!  :)

/Anders