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Nieva
New User
May 30, 2007, 1:05 PM
Post #1 of 6
(3836 views)
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Hello, I am new to the forum and need help to find out what is wrong with my 1994 Plymouth Voyager Van. I looked in my repair manuel but have not found any information. There is fluid leaking from the rear bar that runs between the rear wheels. I smelled the fluid and it does not smell like gas but has an oil smell to it. (If that makes sense.) I am not familiar with autos because my dad used to fix any autos that my sister and I had trouble with. My husband knows less about autos than I do. I just had the alternator replaced and do not want to have to put more money into getting my van diagnosed if it is something I can fix myself. Thanks for any help you can give!
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 31, 2007, 6:40 AM
Post #2 of 6
(3831 views)
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Does this have AWD? Most don't so let's move on:
What fluids are available there...... Gasoline, water from possible rear A/C, gear oil if AWD, washer fluid for rear washer, and most likely brake fluid!!
To identify get some on a clean white cloth. Note color and report. If it dries out it's not an oil. Brake fluid will not dry out but will uniquely rinse off with plain water and brakes lines could traverse over rear axle. That would be VERY important to know and fix ASAP. Check brake fluid level. If it's very low that's a good clue and decide if you even want to attempt to drive it at all till fixed. I have to suggest not driving it if it's brake fluid as you could lose braking ability at any time.
Check it out and forget the cost. Accidents and injury cost lots more,
T
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Nieva
New User
May 31, 2007, 9:58 AM
Post #3 of 6
(3829 views)
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Thank you for your quick reply. My van does not have AWD. I checked under the van to see where the leak was coming from and it seems to be coming from two hoses that are connected to the gas tank. I put a paper towel under the leak and it is clear fluid that smells like gasoline. One of the connectors to the hose seems to be split and that is where the fuel is leaking from. What can I do to fix it? Thanks again for your help
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
May 31, 2007, 10:18 AM
Post #4 of 6
(3828 views)
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This sure seems like you've found it. The rubber fuel lines can be replaced. I think those are just hose that you can buy by the foot but if they have special fittings you may have to get them at a dealer.
If regular hose it is likely to be 10mm ID (means inside diameter) and you want hose rated for fuel injection ONLY. Clamps should be full circle clamps and you will have trouble finding them and folks may look at you crosseyed. The regular spring looking clamps can do but insist on stainless steel. Clamp will be marked SS and get a good fit for the hose not just a huge one. Old clamps if full circle and in good shape can be reused sometimes.
Take care in removing old hose. Cut with exacto type knife and peel away -- don't just yank on them. THERE MAY BE PRESSURE IN THE LINES SO BEWARE! They can also siphon leak to be prepared for that with plugs and use a good drain pan under where you work. Do lines one at a time and don't mix them up.
You may be able to bleed off any residual pressure from fuel rail on engine to minimize getting fuel sprayed around. Do this with things cool and keep shop light (drop light) away from the fuel spilled if any.
Many parts stores will have info on exact size of hose needed which would help rather than running out to get it with an old peice to match up.
Run the car when finished and check for leaks carefully. Car may stall a couple times with some air in the lines but should get over that.
It's gasoling -- need I say more? Hit back if it looks difficult or you lack tools and I'll try from there,
T
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Nieva
New User
Jun 1, 2007, 9:09 AM
Post #5 of 6
(3826 views)
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Thank you so much for all of your help! I fixed it and it is not leaking anymore.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jun 1, 2007, 10:05 AM
Post #6 of 6
(3824 views)
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We love success stories. Cool Beans from Boston!
Now that you are good at fixing leaks put a bid in to fix the damn BIG DIG project in Boston that leaks so bad all the pumps they have are just barely keeping up!!!!
What do you expect from an 18 BILLION $$ tunnel?
T
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