I have an 89 929 that has a problem only in cold weather when the engine is cold. The idle will dip down and the engine starts running rough. I then start getting gasoline fumes inside. Its enough to almost make my eyes water. After the engine warms up the fumes go away and the engine runs fine. It only does this in the winter time. It doesn't do it at all in the summer. I cannot find any external leaks. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Hey larry. Seems like the first thing that should probably be done is to figure out why it runs rough in cold weather. That could very well be the source of fuel odor. But equally important is why these fumes are getting into the vehicle. An exhaust leak under the car or hood could be allowing these fumes in thru the heater system if left on 'fresh air' mode. Remember to check for the leak when cold as sometimes a leak due to say warped manifold surface will disappear as the metal is heated and expands.
If no leaks found at all then check the trunk weatherstrip to ensure it is in good condition. Properly directed exhaust fumes out the tailpipe can still get back into the vehicle thru a torn or otherwise damaged weatherstrip.

Getting away from exhaust and into a fuel leak. Pay very close attention (again when cold) to the flexible lines for fuel supply and return right where they connect up to the engine and in that immediate area of the fuel rail. Leakage from these lines/clamps when cold is somewhat common on both the early 929 and MPV. Quits leaking after just a very short time of running so be sure to check when very cold.

 

Thanks for the info. Supposed to drop down to around 45 here tonight. I don't think that's cold enough but I will look for the leaks in the morning. I'll let you know. Another thing is the fuel mileage. Summer time it's about 17 around town. Winter time it's about 12.

 

Could be several factors that influence that larry. The leak might be one of them. Also when the ambient temperature is colder it just takes that much longer for engine to warm up to operating temperature where it runs at its optimum for fuel economy. Have also heard thru several different sources that the winter blend fuels tend to give a slight reduction in fuel economy over the summer blends. Not sure of that one but have heard it several times. If your area blends a degree of ethanol into the fuel during the summer month's that could also be playing a role. Add all of them together and you may be able to see why the difference.

 

I did find my fuel leak. It is the fuel line on the front of the fuel rail. I jumpered my fuel circuit and turned on the key. Sure enough, it just started dripping everywhere. Thanks for the heads up. While I was moving it around the starter went out. Just needs brushes and a solenoid I think. Spent part of the afternoon trying to get it out.

 

Glad you were able to locate that fuel leak larry. Not only for the bad odor but for the fire risk. I know those starters are a bugger to get out and hope you are able to repair without need for replacement.

 

Hey, I have an 88 and my car does the exact same thing. I seem to notice it stronger when the heater is on, coming through the heater vents. I'll have to go check out that location. Can you show my any pics?