Classic VW BuGs How to Stop Fuel Odor Gas Fumes Smell in your Beetle

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This is a short tip on stopping the fuel gas odor that can leech into the inside cabin of your VW.

[@ralphmalph3183]

my wife just told me today that she was getting a gas smell in our 70 bug. now i can pretend like i have known all along what the problem was. score 1 for me

[@UndisputedFrost]

man and I was having that same problem but only after a fill up 71 stnd

[@malkucken]

great video - thanks Chris. I just want to add that the gas tank sending unit seal is also a common source of fuel odor. Especially noticeable when you fill your tank all the way. You can get a new rubber seal for $2 or $3 at Wolfsburg West or Jbugs and they're super easy to replace.

[@moyate11]

This is the answer I was looking for! Thanks!

[@dneos]

great video Chris

[@johnmartin5153]

Chris , does the expansion tank behind the air box on a 71 super actually fill with gas - or does it just pass the fumes threw ?

[@classicvwbugs]

Just fumes.

[@anthonyderosa9134]

Hi Chris , I’m working on a 1974 super beetle convertible and cant find anything that covers restoration of a convertible. Would appreciate ur help--Tony

[@classicvwbugs]

I have a whole video series on it.

[@peterduxbury927]

I have a 1971 Super Beetle. The cabin was always full of gas fumes, and I tried most things - like examining every cotton-braided 5mm hose for leaks. There is one place where I didn't look - until some years later. I went underneath the car, and noticed that the Main Fuel Hose (on the base of the Tank) was slightly 'weeping' and by touching this, there was definitely fuel moisture there! This is just one of those items that may get overlooked, so thought to mention here. Even after owning the beetle for 20 years, there was always a slight fuel smell inside the cabin. I eventually solved the problem completely in 2019. It was converted to EV, using the Hyper 9 Motor, and the Tesla Model S Battery Pack. I restored the Beetle in 2004 to almost new condition, even arranging leather seating upholstery. Today, I smell the leather - and fresh air. Beetle was always used as a 'local' car, so it's no hardship with 150 km range, and to charge in my garage. The fuel smells was just one area of a fine classic car that I didn't get quite right. Greetings from Australia.

[@woodyw6891]

Will you quote me a price for that conversion? Where on the bug do you put a Tesla Model S battery pack? 🥹

[@peterduxbury927]

@@woodyw6891 Unfortunately, any price that I quote would not be an accurate representation, because the EV Conversion was completed 5 years ago. The Model 'S" Battery Pack is split into two (2) separate units. There are three (3) Tesla battery Modules in place of the Fuel Tank. A further two (2) Tesla battery Modules are placed directly behind the Rear Seat. This follows the pattern devised by EV West and makes for a very successful EV Conversion. The Main Motor is a Netgain Hyper 9, which gives the Beetle adequate power. The 4 - speed gearbox is still retained, and is a positive benefit. Expect to spend north of $40K, unless you attempt to do the EV Conversion yourself. I would never return to the original Boxer Engine, because (with an EV Conversion), you have no misfires / tappet settings / Spark Plugs to change / etc. Turn the key and drive it, just check the brakes annually. It is a real thrill to drive, 100% reliable. I have a car for life. I hope that this answers your questions. Greetings from Australia.

[@joshuuaaaa440]

Can you route the fuel breather the same as the earlier one on a later one ?

[@classicvwbugs]

Im sure you can yeah

[@joshuuaaaa440]

@@classicvwbugs thanks for the reply ! I’m going to have a go at the weekend with my 182 ! I have rebuilt my engine and complete suspension using your channel it’s helped loads thank you !

[@johncollins5552]

Thanks Chris, you may be a lifesaver, thanks to all your top tips. Here in Ireland we unfortunately have up to 15% ethanol in our petrol, so I fear its speeding up destruction of oe spec. braided hoses. VW back in the day Always recommended replacing all rubber parts every 4 years for safety! I think this is good practice for Brake hoses and tyres, but overkill for the rest!

[@JeffersonDavis1]

Another place for fumes on the 61-67 tanks is a rubber boot on the mechanical sending unit float where the fuel gauge hooks on. The boot that encircles that lever to actuate the fuel gauge can crack and leak fumes. That is where I found the source of fumes on my '66 Beetle.

[@littlelarry2912]

Great vids. I'm restoring my 73 Super. Been a long time since I've tinkered with these cars so this is very helpful. And get me interested in driving my old VW again !

[@PhotoAlbert]

Thanks for another great video Chris. Now I know what to do with the 1970 VW I recently bought. But I am wondering why I couldn't just use one long tube between the filler neck and the gas tank neck rather than two short pieces connected to that metal tube that goes in between them. Is there a reason for that? Thanks!

[@classicvwbugs]

thats a good question my friend! It was done that way from factory. But yeah, I do not see why you couldn't just use one hose.

[@PhotoAlbert]

Thanks Chris, I appreciate it!

[@PhotoAlbert]

Thanks so much Chris. I went ahead and changed the filler tube on my '70 Beetle as shown in your video. I'm still getting gas smell and I think it's because I didn't change the vent hose. In my research I haven't been able to find what size that braided vent hose is that loops back over to the gas tank. Do you happen to know the size? Thanks again!.

[@Dawnzyxio14]

Mines leaking inside the tunnel where the shift linkage is, is there anyway to fix that the fuel smell is very strong

[@classicvwbugs]

yeah usually have to forget about that line, blow some air through it to clear it out, then run another line outside the tunnel. I have a video on that.

[@Dawnzyxio14]

@@classicvwbugs ah i see, thx

[@Bugmason]

Where do you find the windshield wiper reservoir?

[@classicvwbugs]

behind the spare tire

[@Bugmason]

Yes, I looked on cip1.com....jbugs.com for it.

[@Bugmason]

The little tank I've seen the electric available, just not the simple round oval one. Much support thank you! 👍🙂

[@jrivera500]

Where do I buy the entire assembly for gas tank hoses for a 72 super beetle, thanks ,

[@classicvwbugs]

check wolfsburgwest.com in their "fuel" section.

[@jrivera500]

Thanks, enjoy ur informational videos

[@renragged]

My bug only gives me the vapors (90s rap reference, sorry) just after filling up. And usually only when I go around a left turn. So I imagine the gas is sloshing around in the filler neck and leaking out somewhere. I haven't spent any time trying to figure it out yet but this video has me thinking about it. Maybe I'll check it out this weekend.. As always, thanks for sharing Chris!

[@BobSchrader]

Nervous about changing/disconnecting if have gas fumes and accidentally hit something and create a spark. Do you do this when tank is empty, or is it safe to swap out?

[@427v8]

that braided line is not ethanol safe, it will fail quickly if you use pump gas, rather than ethanol free gas. But it does fit the clips better and is probably fine for a vent hose.

[@howardsthevenet]

I am about to purchase a 1960 VW Beetle. No gas gauge. Where do I purchase a Gas Gauge Stick?

[@TexasFinest_Collectibles]

Thanks for the video. Do you have a link to that braided cable that was on the 67 Beetle

[@terriwhite1721]

My '74 super beetle has factory installed AC making it difficult to get to the gas tank and check the hoses

[@sandman9999xx]

msmithstud, check your exhaust mainfold gasgets and the heat exchangers. also check any and all seals in the engine compartment.

[@juliehenderson3604]

So the vent hose just sticks out he bottom of the car? About an in or two through he hole?

[@JamesWhittle]

I've read that the arm seal on a mechanical fuel sender is another common source.

[@justinrein723]

I think the loop is for when you are turning your gas just doesn't spill out

[@orbitaljellyfish808]

It’s most likely for filling so it doesn’t backup gurgle or foam. Gas pumps can really deliver the fuel. If anything the loop would help the gas get up to the cap in a turn.

[@beefsoda1]

I believe it's called an Enfield loop

[@ahmedseedat8120]

Brilliant very well explained

[@adamaqil9271]

Can you swap the rubber hose with full steel hose?

[@renealquizola4995]

How can we clean a 1972 super beetle gas tank? Any inside diagram, how it looks? I'm having hard time flushing out

[@jskate1100]

I am interested in hearing more about the newer models that have the (as your referenced it), "the plastic tube" that is fixed to the backside of the dash under the hood there. Mine is leaking and needs replacing but I don't even know the name of the part or have been able to find anything online even remotely similar looking. I have a convertible 78 super. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[@briansmythe3219]

Thank you verry helpful , I wish I could say Bess Doesn"t Smell Some times when I fill her right up , But i can"t

[@willycsjr]

I have a 67 beetle and wanted to get a new fuel vent hose. What size in diameter do I purchase and where to buy?

[@bigblack5902]

+Will Stinson 5mm braided hose

[@caveman726]

Ordered a 8inch piece, cut it in half. Removed 4inch tubes & replaced, took away the smell!! My bug is a '71

[@andrewhibbert9958]

my 72 superbeetle dumps gas out the fuel door everytime I take a left turn. I have replaced the cap 3 times buying from jbugs. An older man told me that over time the neck where the cap screws onto over time will begin to warp which is why new gas caps don't work. any ideas?

[@doctorvoiceover6582]

What's the total length of that hose on that 67?

[@jimbannon4127]

This is a great video. I am trying to track down a gas smell in a 67 I suspect my overflow hose because it is very bad after fill up. I try not to over fill the tank I notice I have what appears to be a check valve on the over flow and small chrome fitting and I thought that might be stuck open but I can’t find a replacement part so I’m assuming it’s an aftermarket piece. The other issue I suspect is my electric fuel pump It never shuts off if I turn the key without starting the engine the pump will continue to run. I feel this is suspect to a problem. I’m new to VW’s and looking to get this sorted out

[@esmearman3734]

Also check the soft line from under fuel tank to hard fuel line. That’s where mine was leaking

[@littlelarry2912]

Do you know anyone who sells fuel line kits for Super Beetles ? I'm restoring my 73 and i'm having fuel pressure issues, and fuel smell. I'd love to replace all the lines, or even put a fuel cell in and simplify the system.

[@chrisgoodson2604]

Helpful- wasn’t sure about all those hoses and canisters on my 73 standard beetle. Is there a return fuel line when the engine has dual carburetors?

[@2183fishboy]

Hi Chris - May I ask where you got the trunk liner for the 1970?

[@maxrocketmusic]

Thank you! Going to try to gas-proof my 73 Super convertible

[@HBOIchip]

Great Videos Chris, any idea on sourcing the smallest braided hoses for the fuel tank vent? Mine are shot, and would rather get the right ones, rather than some rubber hose from NAPA!

[@classicvwbugs]

+Chip Baumberger wolfsburgwest.com and many others

[@JoseRodriguez-vw5mo]

@@classicvwbugs i have a situation with my 71 Bettle every time I wanna drive it after couple of months the tank it’s empty and it’s not leaking can you please help any advise it’s a big help

[@classicvwbugs]

@@JoseRodriguez-vw5mo you sure it's not leaking in the chassis tunnel?

[@JoseRodriguez-vw5mo]

@@classicvwbugs not really but there it’s no smell...how can I check that?

[@classicvwbugs]

@@JoseRodriguez-vw5mo Check under the pan of the car and see if you see any leaks along the tunnel. Or moisture. But you would smell it for sure if it was in the tunnel.

[@GalosPolElPaso]

Hi Chris was about to order the vent hose for my 67 Beetle from lane russell but after watching your video I wonder how much do I need to order ? And thanks for all your videos ! Ciao ciao Robbie

[@stevejakobovic3470]

Hi Chris. I just got a '73 Ghia. Its great, but it does smell gassy. Is there a blow-out diagram online that you can direct me to make sure its all connected right? Appreciate it!

[@larrywoodruff7530]

I've owned my 69 since the early 80s and have never smelled gas fumes, must be just luck.

[@poomped53]

This is super helpful but I'm starting at your car and wondering why you have a 68- vehicle with the filler inside the trunk!?

[@poomped53]

Ohhh it was a 67. Got it.

[@67loowit_scarab57]

Where do I get that blue fender beading? I want to paint my 67 vw blue but I need the correct beading before I do it otherwise I'm going with lotus white

[@N_scale]

Hi Chris. Got the Wolfsburg west kit with the rubber bands. The rubber bands go inside?! Seems crazy but I'm doing it lol

[@classicvwbugs]

yeah they go around the hard tube.

[@delux68]

Good info and explanations, thank you.

[@maxschremmer1334]

old bugs are ok using regular gas?

[@classicvwbugs]

Yep

[@wahckitash]

I had a 1969 beetle, I loved it but we called it stink bug because the gas fumes were so strong.

[@waiting4aliens]

Ethanol resistant hose.

[@marcella4952]

Looks like my first 67. Just purchased a 63

[@triariicat8448]

my bug has a strong gas smell in the rear, i think it's the carburetor or gas lines

[@67loowit_scarab57]

Where do I get that blue fender beading? I want to paint my 67 vw blue but I need the correct beading before I do it otherwise I'm going with lotus white

[@elitemarine100]

67Loowit_scarab what color did u end up painting it?

[@mikeobrien5702]

Awesome, I needed this it's great to know.my 77 always smells like gas,😂

[@AndrewSMoore7]

Hi Chris, I am interested in where you got the trunk liner for the 1970 Beetle in this video (at around 4:14). I have a 1969 Beetle and need a trunk liner but I've never seen one with the wiring cover that just slides out like that...I've only seen the wiring cover that bolts in, and this one seems more convenient. Thanks. Your videos have immensely helped me in my resto.

[@classicvwbugs]

Sure, I think I got them from cip1. =o)

[@AndrewSMoore7]

Great, thanks!

[@gregdaniels3201]

Thanks!!!

[@MMAfighter38113]

If exhaust fumes are coming into your cabin when the heater is on, what's causing that?

[@classicvwbugs]

msmithstud maybe a gas leak in the motor compartment and the fan pushes the smell through the heat boxes to the front of the car.

[@MMAfighter38113]

Thanks, Chris

[@mikeobrien5702]

What is the latest year bug you have restored Chris?

[@classicvwbugs]

This one www.classicvwbugs.com/2017/11/30/classic-vw-bugs-1970-original-convertible-beetle-project/

[@pushpindersingh4932]

all videos are very useful for beetle owners

[@AdamLeeJ12]

Hey chris ive been working on a 72 super beetle autostick. There is a small metal line that runs down the passenger side and into the engine compartment at the top of the rear wheel well passenger side. Any idea what it is?

[@classicvwbugs]

The line runs on the inside or outside of the car? If it is outside, it could be the line to the charcoal canister.

[@AdamLeeJ12]

Yeah it runs to the charcoal canister.

[@Rich2481]

I have a 9172 super beetle, that hard line comes off the plastic tube that goes across front end, tucked up under the dash,, pain to get at,, my canister rotted off years ago..

[@kttexas34]

i was wondering what it was i have a 71 no canister tho

[@ilettahopper7405]

I have a 66 vw Beetle, need to know what to put on before I do head liner. also where can I find the rubber that goes between the quarter panel and the car and do you have a video showing how to place that on. Mine are bad and coming off. (outside of car)