I recently purchased this 94 854T with 144K. It frequently gives off a strong gasoline/exhaust odor that emanates from the engine bay, but quickly work its way in the cabin and seems worse when the heat/AC is on. I've checked fuel lines and exhaust system for obvious leaks/bad fittings, but can't seem to find the source.

Also, there is a hollow knocking sound coming from under the air cleaner box. It starts a few minutes after the engine is started, but matches engine speed/timing.

I'm familiar with the fuel vapor canisters on the 7/940Ts that I've owned - is the 850 counterpart a mechanical unit that is buried under the air cleaner box and could it be the source of the gasoline odor?

Thanks!

The vapor canistor is by the right front wheel and could be the source of the smell. Taking short trips will low rpm will aggravate the problem, not enough time to burn off the accumulated vapors in the cannister.

I am troubled by that knocking under the air box. Nothing there. Under the battery tray is the air pump?

Klaus

--
98 V70Rawd(108Kmi), 95 854T(88K mi), 75 164E(173K mi)

On the 94, the vapor canister is by the left (driver's side) wheel well and is visible if you look up from under the front left side of the spoiler. Check the connections, particularly the "elbows" as they seem to crack, causing a vacuum leak. That will also set a code and set the check engine light.