Nissan Repair: gas smell, canister purge valve, frontier 2

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2001 Frontier 2.4L 5spd reg. cab. 168,000 miles. I'm noticing a gasoline smell, I don't see any leaks at all.I notice it more when I fill up, I also checked the filler neck and saw nothing. Should I check the evap canister and check valve? If so, what is the test for them?

ANSWER: Rich,

There was a recall on your vehicle for fuel related problems.  Check the link below.
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/recalls/results.cfm
Also, many Nissans of your year had defective hoses that rot, so check that too.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: when you say hoses that rot, do you mean vacuum, evap canister and fuel hoses?

Answer
Rich,

I mean the fuel hoses.  And, this includes those that are connected to the evaporative system since they are under pressure too.  If the evaporative canister purge valve was defective it would set a code.  You are probably looking at the lines on top of the gas tank where they go to hard lines or those from the evaporative canister.  If you fill up the vehicle and then drive it to get it hot and then get it up on a lift you should see dampness on hoses that are seeping or even a loose clamp.  It takes some hunting since there are so many areas that have the opportunity to leak.