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March 23, 2007 10:42 AM PDT

Trapdoor for the gas cap

by Mike Yamamoto
(Credit: AutoSport)

As much as we hate to think about gasoline--its ever-rising prices, more specifically--this is an item that could save a good bit of mess at the pump.

Gas caps can be a pain to use, especially if you're as forgetful as we are: We've left a few of them behind by accident, next to the coffee on the roof. But there's an alternative called the "InStant Fill," a device with a "trapdoor mechanism" that allows you to insert the nozzle without removing the cap. Book of Joe notes that it's also an official NASCAR product, so you can time yourself at each pit stop while reliving Talladega Nights.

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Did I miss something?
by hcklbry March 23, 2007 11:01 AM PDT
So how does it prevent siphoning? I clicked on the link to the product and it didn't say anything about that either...what did I miss?
Reply to this comment
Apologies for our mistake
by Mike Yamamoto March 23, 2007 11:56 AM PDT
Hcklbry, you're absolutely right--I misread a product description found on another site. The item has been amended. Thanks for point out the error. --Mike
Not so useful though, at least in northeast
by WalrusSP March 23, 2007 12:04 PM PDT
in the description it says "Not recommended for use in areas where vapor recovery nozzles are used."

I'm in Massachusetts and the vapor recovery pumps are all over the place. Are there parts of the country that you never see the vapor recovery pumps?
Reply to this comment
It may void warranties - and violate laws
by qprize March 24, 2007 8:00 AM PDT
Many (most?) Engine Control Modules monitor the gas tank, and if you leave
your cap at the pump you'll eventually get a Check Engine Light, because the
vapor recovery of the tank isn't working. The tank is supposed to be closed so
the gas doesn't evaporate into the atmosphere, adding hydrocarbon pollution.
That's why you hear a hiss when you open the cap.
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