The standard fuel cap is one of the simplest parts of your car, and it’s a component that few people think about often. However, for such a simple device, it can make a significant impact on your car’s performance, most notably on fuel economy and safety. The standard fuel cap regulates both the pressure inside the gas tank, and prevents leakage of dangerous vapors from within. Additionally, the gas cap prevents oxygen from getting into the tank and keeps dirt and debris from clogging your systems. Without this small, yet important, device, your car would not run as smoothly as it does.
History
Since the inception of the car, the standard fuel cap has always been around. However, for most of automotive history, this device was seen as simply a way to keep outside elements from getting into the fuel tank. As a result of this line of thinking, most gas caps were a simple metal plug that fits into the pipe. No screws, no pressurization, nothing as complicated as what we see today.
Environmental Impact
It wasn’t until the 1970’s that gas caps began to change. It was at this time that people started to worry about the environmental effects of gasoline fumes, as well as safety concerns regarding a fire starting from the gas tank in the case of a collision. It was during this period that standard fuel caps underwent a period of evolution with better designs being tested and used.
Finally, with the Clean Air Act in the 1990s, the standard fuel cap started to look more like the caps of today. The restrictions on air pollution were now much higher than they were in the 70’s, so standard fuel caps had to adjust accordingly.
Even though the standard fuel cap is not something that many people think about, it can be a vital component of your car’s performance. Here at MotoRad USA, all of our standard fuel caps are top-rated and meet all state and federal guidelines. We have a wide range of caps, including locking fuel caps for extra security. Contact us today and we can find the right standard fuel cap for you.
