Abstract: The present invention provides a system for detecting leaks in the evaporative emission control system utilized in automotive vehicles. Such control systems include a carbon filled canister having both a vent port and a fuel vapor port. The fuel vapor port, as well as a vapor line from the fuel tank, are connected through a purge valve to the intake manifold of the internal combustion engine. The present invention includes a vent valve which is fluidly connected with the canister vent port. An electronic control system closes both the vent valve and opens the purge valve thereby exposing the evaporative emission control system to the partial vacuum in the intake manifold. After a predetermined time period, the purge valve is closed thus entrapping the partial vacuum in the purge system while a pressure transducer thereafter monitors the partial vacuum in the purge system.
Abstract: A quick connect fluid coupling is provided for use with a fuel tank having an outwardly extending tubular and cylindrical nipple and which the nipple has a radially inwardly extending recess at a position spaced from its outer end. The coupling includes a tubular and cylindrical body which is open at each end and which is dimensioned to slidably extend over the nipple to a connected position. The body includes a plurality of elongated and circumferentially spaced slots formed radially through the body and these slots register with the nipple recess when the body is in its connected position. An elongated arcuate retainer is positioned within each slot and is radially movable between an inner locked position in which a portion of the retainer is positioned in the nipple recess, and an outer unlocked position in which the retainers are positioned outside the nipple recess thereby allowing the body to move axially with respect to the fuel tank nipple.