5 Main Reasons Why Your Motorcycle Is Leaking Gas

Why is my motorcycle leaking gas?

1. Issues with your fuel petcock and fuel lines
2. Your carburetor gasket needs replacing
3. There are holes in your fuel tank
4. Problems with your fuel injector
5. Your gas tank cap is worn out

Motorcycle gas leaks can be dangerous, so it’s important to identify the source of the leak as soon as you notice it. Gas leaks can expose you to toxic fumes, cause further wear and tear on your motorcycle, and can even lead to accidents if left unsolved.

If you’re unsure of what the source of the problem could be, here are five common reasons why your motorcycle is leaking gas, and how to address them.

Issues with your fuel petcock and fuel lines

The most common place for a leak to occur is in the fuel petcock, also known as the fuel valve. This component of your motorcycle is what is used to shut off the supply of gas from the tank. It has an on, off, and reserve setting.

To check your fuel petcock, turn it to the off setting. Then, check for leaks around the petcock itself. This is likely to happen at the bottom of the petcock. If this is the source, then its hose clamp may need to be tightened.

If there is no leak, then it may mean the connection between the petcock and gasket is the issue. It may be worn and in need of replacement, which a mechanic can help with. A replacement gasket can easily be found at an auto store or online from the OEM.

Your carburetor gasket needs replacing

Another common source has to do with the motorcycle’s carburetor, which also involves a gasket issue. The carburetor is the component that transmits air and gas to the internal combustion engine. The gas comes from a connected bowl, which another gasket sits on. If the gasket is old and unable to create an airtight seal, this bowl may be leaking gas. We recommend regularly inspecting your carburetor and replacing its connecting seals and gaskets.

There are holes in your fuel tank

The next thing to check is the fuel tank itself. Holes or cracks in your fuel tank can cause gas to leak. This issue is more common when the tank is old, worn, and has formed rust as they increase the chances of holes forming. If this is the source of the leak, do not try to weld the hole shut, as it may cause a fire or explosion to occur. Instead, call your mechanic for help, or have the fuel tank replaced.

Problems with your fuel injector

The fuel injector is a computer system that your motorcycle needs to control the ratio of air and fuel entering the internal combustion chamber. This is a less common problem than the previous three sources, it can still be a likely cause. When this goes haywire, it can cause fuel to overflow — hence the leak. This component is found at the back of the engine, so if you see it leaking, talk to your mechanic about possible fixes. You may also have to replace this component if this is the source of your leak.

Your gas tank cap is worn out

Do you only smell or notice a leak when you’ve recently filled up your gas tank? If so, the likely cause is the gas tank cap. This typically uses a spring system to keep the tank shut, but if the spring is worked out, then it won’t be able to adequately seal gas in. This may cause vapors and some gas to spill out. To check, open the tank cap and press the spring mechanism with your fingers — if there is little resistance, it’s a sure sign the spring or the cap itself needs replacing.

Key Takeaway

It is not normal for your motorcycle to leak or smell like gas — if you notice this, then take immediate action. Check the common reasons why your motorcycle is leaking gas first, and call a professional to evaluate the situation. You may need simple repairs, but some problems may call for a complete replacement of the affected part.

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