I do not see any leaks near the motor and the fuel rail appears dry but there is sometimes an extremly strong gas smell. I have a small exhaust leak in the rear and that seems to be where it comes from but is seems more like gas not exhaust but if the car is running very rich this is possible I guess. Any other suggestions or possible locations for a leak please let me know.
JMFNX@AOL.COM
1989 350 GTA

 

Aaaahhhhhh I think you found it so, fix it.

 

If the exhaust leak is on the same side as the oxygen sensor, it is not only allowing exhaust gasses out but air in. This will dilute the exhaust gas mixture and "fool" the O² and ECM into thinking the mixture is too lean. The ECM will respond by enriching the mixture until the O² is satisfied of it is at its limits.

Repair the exhaust leak first, then try it again. If the situation still occurs, there are some other things to try, but that exhaust leak is a problem either way.