4.3 mercruiser fuel leak?

[13crazyhorse]

I have a 2002 4.3 mercruiser carb engine. Replaced the electric fuel pump. Started the boat up and after a minute gas started dripping out of the electrical connection. How is this possible? Took it apart put it back together and no leaks. A couple of days later started it again same thing. I will try to add a pic of the connection. Is my boat possessed? Thanks for any assistance.

 

[alldodge]

gas started dripping out of the electrical connection.

Yes, need pic

 

[13crazyhorse]

[No message]

 

[alldodge]

That is way to cloe but think the pic was taken facing up maybe

My guess is the line leaks and it drips down to the connector.

 

[Rick Stephens]

gas started dripping

That's the main fix now problem.

And like AD said, not much chance of the fuel being pushed through the wires. Which leaves a leak at the pump or fuel line connections traveling through the cable sleeve.

 

[ThomW]

I'd tend to agree with alldodge. Hard to see much in that picture except the connector from pump. Gas must be leaking and running down the wires or the wire casings and dripping off at connectors. And signs of gas at pump or from any of the lines?

 

[13crazyhorse]

I thought of that but checked the lines and they're all dry. It wouldnt come and go from that either. Definitely weird.

 

[alldodge]

If its a pinhole size leak it could be spraying over to it. In any case its not coming from the wires

 

[13crazyhorse]

Maybe I'll put teflon tape on the gas lines could be sneaking out of the threads somewhere.

 

[Grub54891]

The lines shouldn't need tape. Most are flared fittings, if the flares were over tightened they need to be replaced.
I did have an issue quite a few years ago with a parts washer, I was cleaning it out and had the cord laying on the floor. After awhile I looked over and the solution was coming from the end of the cord. Apparently the seal at the motor/pump was compromised. Supposed to be a sealed unit, but stuff happens. So yes it can happen. Being a flammable liquid its not in the best interest to use it that way.

 

[Scott Danforth]

fuel leaks in boats lead to explosions