K11-LT mechanical question ...

[basketcase]

Since we don't have a forum devoted specifically to tech questions, I surmised this would be the place to ask (as opposed to asking over on the Campfire section). Here goes.

I am riding a 1995 K1100LT. Tonight, I took a 40 + mile ride through the rolling hills and countryside, and twice, I smelled gas -- not an overpowering, raw gas odor, but a fuel-ish smell all the same.

Given my schedule, I will have to wait until daylight and Saturday to look at it in earnest. I would not call myself a skilled wrench, but I can do most basic maintenance ... and don't mind following instructions.

What else might be the sources of such an odor? Any insight will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Rick

PS: FWIW, after I made the original post, this was moved to the Tech sections that opened mid day on April 18. Progress ...

[kbasa]

Was it right after you filled up by any chance?

[basketcase]

No, it presently has about 1/4 tank of gas. The gas cap has not been opened for several days.

[jdiaz]

If this is a new smell, I would check the fuel line connections to the tank and at the fuel rail. You can see one of them by your left foot, but you'll need to remove the knee pad to see the others. Maybe something is weeping.

Does this bike still have separate hoses under the breather lines on the right rear of the gas tank? If they are old and cracked, you might be getting some vent smell from those. And even if the hoses have been replaced by the plastic cup, you'll still get a little smell.

Another possibility is a seam leak at the bottom of the gas tank. Hopefully its not that.

And maybe the foam seal around the base of the gas cap has finally given up. That's an inexpensive fix, but a little time consuming. You haven't lived until you've disassembled a K bike gas cap.

Jon