How to Make a Temporary Gas Cap
by Susan Maddocks
You have lost your gas cap and need something to cover your car's gas tank to insure gas fumes don't escape, leading to air pollution, and your gas does not evaporate at a quicker rate. There are at least three steps you can take, depending on where you are and what resources you have when you discover your gas cap is missing.
Step 1
Buy a temporary gas cap at your car dealership. Be sure to get the right type and make sure it fits properly.
Step 2
Tear off a piece of aluminum foil large enough to cover your gas tank opening. Place it over the gas tank opening. Secure with a heavy-duty rubber band.
Step 3
Ask the attendant at the gas station for a spare cap. Many attendants keep the caps that have been left behind.
Step 4
Place a thick rag or a thick washcloth around the gas opening and secure tightly with a heavy-duty rubber band.
References
Tips
- Keep a spare gas cap in your glove compartment.
Things You'll Need
- Temporary gas cap
- Aluminum foil
- Thick rubber band
- Thick rag or washcloth
Warnings
- Fuel systems are meant to be sealed to work properly. Make sure to replace your gas cap as soon as possible. Always be cautious as putting anything foreign over your gas tank can be extremely dangerous. Due to fuel vapors ability to burn violently, driving without a gas cap puts you at great risk for fire. (ref 2)
Writer Bio
Susan Maddocks began her career in 1984 as a video writer and producer. She also contributed to numerous commercials, informercials, training and animation scripts, and co-wrote "Sim City Enhanced CD-ROM." Maddocks was awarded the first-ever Interactive Academy Award for her Sim City creation. Maddocks currently writes screenplays and weight-loss/health articles. She received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tulsa.
