1973.5 fuel pump access

Howdy,
First I used to be BRose, then SealoverB, but I changed my email server and its been no less then tough to get back onboard here. Good to be back and ask my many 73 early 911 mates some questions.
I am getting a gas smell coming up from the front of the cockpit and I believe I have a leaking check valve, loose hose or failing fuel pump (noisy). I am concerend about just how to access the pump? Can I use standard ramps for sufficient height or do I have to jack this puppy way high? Is that cover plate easy to remove and will the fuel pump be readily accessible when removed? Any help is always appreciated.

Thanks
BR, SealoverB, Alias "Sunroof"
'73T

First make sure your fuel pump is in the front, I don't know if it is or not. Mine (72 911E) is by the left rear axle. Before I would even check the fuel pump I would check the hoses running to the emmissions equipment in the front of the car. There are three on my 72: oval shaped canister (which is filled with carbon, right by the left battery) small box behind left hood strut and a large box under the left front fender. I know on my MGB when the carbon in the cannister is saturated I can smell gas fumes under the hood. As for removing the plate under the car it is held in place with 4 bolts. Soak them with your favorite penetrant for a day. When removing keep in mind that plate weighs around 5 lbs so hold it in place with a hand when removing bolts. You can use car ramps. I just use jack stands.

Kurt V
72 911E

Kurt..
Thanks. I took apart the emission system when I realized all the hoses connected, especially in the engine compartment were brittle and cracked. I plugged everything up where needed. The emission filter is out of the car now. I had several responses months ago to the impact on performance with the dismantling of "Porsches answer to air quality" and the consensus was, A-OKAY. The smell of gas has come on quite quickly and very distinct, but intermittent. I do not see any drips or drops though under the car. Maybe if the pump is under the pan and there is enough space to collect a few drops then it has time to volatize out. Anyways I would think a fuel pump that is failing goes quickly. That old dead on the street routine! Why an intermittent smell if it were a hose or check valve leaking?
Appreciate the input.

Bob