Mercedes: mercedes 380sec fuel smell, connection joints, mercedes 380sec

Question
Hi,  I have  82' 380 SEC  that runs fine, but get smell of gas when windows are open. I checked under the car and there is a rubber line/hose that is dripping gas near rear of car  right passenger side. My question is  if the car runs ok, why is this line dripping fuel ?  is it a return fuel line  or some kind of vaccume line ?  Any help would be appreciated. --- Mark

Answer
Mark,
This issue need immediate attention. The fuel system is a closed system. I expect that the hose ispart of the evaporative collection system.
If you over fill the tank then you can get liquid in this system.
With age the rubber lines and connection joints become brittle and leak.
That is the minimum.
If in fact this is part of the fuel pump system then you are loosing fuel under pressure. If the fuel pump is electric, then it recirculates to the engine and back to the tank.
The new alcohol blended fuels can attack rubber over time if the composition is not the new type.
I would locate an independent mechanic to check out the problem. You definitely do not want to create a potential for some passer by to drop a cigarette near the vehicle.
Good Luck
Robert