Gas smell

[Guest]

I am not very mechanically inclined and need some advice. I have a 2001 Sportsman 500 that for some reason has a strong gas smell. It just started sun on a ice fishing trip to Farm Island. Any ideas?

[Surface Tension]

Did you trailer it with the gas valve on.
The bouncing around on the trailer will increase the fuel level in the bowl and run out the overflow hose.

[Guest]

Yes I did but I've been doing that for the 6 mnths I've had it. Didin't even know it should be off. It was running fine so I'll give that a shot. Thanks.

[Dave]

Still runs ok? Best I can say is to look for any gas leaks/drips, while running and while engine is shut off. Could've overflowed a bit.

[Sand Burr]

You probably filled it up with gas before you left home and left the gas valve in the on position. This creates a "head" on the carb and can ruin the seat in the carb causing it to leak through the overflow tube. Your choices are to shut the gas off every time you go to park it or replace the needle and seat in the carb. If it is new anuff and under warranty bring it it. This is what I have seen about 9 out of 10 times. Hope it helps.