Hi gang. Got a story for ya. This 99 Outback (AWD) will only take fuel very slowly. So, to pinpoint the problem I've done a few things and raised some questions. 1st i checked the drain/vent valve and bypass valves. The drain works well and the bypass quietly clicks but i couldn't test its flow as it is in a bad spot and the lines are rusty. Anyhow, the one good source i had indicates that few things are involved with venting during fueling. Regardless, i began opening all the lines in hopes of finding a blockage while using the EELD to push air into the filler neck. No matter what i did, no flow. As the leads narrowed i had to get access to the tank vent valve. It is located at the top of this rusty tank and requires removal of tank to access. Now as you may know, this is not an easy task on these Subarus. On this one, its not worth doing. This ol girl is very rusty (like most 12yr old cars in New Hampshire) is will not be coming out without consequences. So, i made my own access panel in the cargo floor. After gaining access i found the vent line is not blocked and i removed the vent. With vent in hand, i taped the side holes shut and blew into the one remaining opening to find it works. However, their is a smaller line at its top with a diaphragm that effects operation. It goes into the tank cavity and also to the top of the filler tube above the 2 hose valve that closes when filling. Here is the question (i know, you thought I'd never ask!), when any vac, pos. pressure, or block is applied to this port the vent wont open. How then does it work? It appears that this small port is going to "see" the same pressure build as the tank when filling. Does anyone have some good test for this? There is some apparatus in the tank that also has me concerned and i cant reach it. I ordered a new valve out of desperation and the car is scheduled to return in 4 days. I am not sure how this valve is supposed to work after my interrogation and how other parts could impact my "diagnosis". Could use some advise. Thanks again.
Neil
Neil
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