Scotty
I have a 1950 De Soto with a L head six cylinder. I get a strong odor of fumes like gas or exhaust after I turn the car off. I have given it a complete tuneup, a new gas cap, a complete exhaust system from the engine back, and cleaned the carb it runs perfect. No misses no spitting no sputtering but it has that odor. Especially when I turn it off. I have to leave my garage door open for a while for it to air out. Any ideas?
thank you
Ron Lee in Barberton Ohio
Bear in mind there are zero emission controls on that engine, not even a PCV valve. Crankcase vapors are dumped directly into the atmosphere, and especially if rings are worn there will be significant blowby that you'll smell. (There will be some blowby even if the engine is in good condition.) Even when tuned up there will be unburned hydrocarbons going out the exhaust which you'll smell. Gasoline fumes can escape from the carb and gas tank when the engine is off. Of course you'll also smell any oil drips onto hot engine parts.
Cars of that vintage are not odour-free, but the smell should not be overpowering.
