It doesn't really matter the reason for the leak. Get it looked at by a mechanic and get the hole fixed.
You can stop a leaking gas tank, by making a paste of soap on the hole of the gas tank.
If its leaking from the gas tank directly, then yes...but it could also be leaking from the gas line or the engine or any of the connections in between.
leaking line or fuel tank
Look and see where it is leaking from.
The overflow tank is either cracked or its overheating and leaking from the cap
If your vehicle is leaking fumes, then your gas tank needs to be fixed.
You can't. EPA and the government requires a gas tank to be replaced if it is leaking or cracked.
Your 1996 Escort might smell like gas when it is not running because of a damaged gas tank or damaged fuel lines. Leaking injectors or a leaking tank can also cause that smell.
The gas tank is on the right hand side of a Ford Ranger. This is on the passage side.
If the gas isn't leaking while the engine is running and you have half a tank, then the problem is with the fuel tank itself. You either have a hole in the upper half of the tank, or the gasket for your fuel sending unit is leaking.
water can be pumped in from a leaking underground tank at a gas station or if you leave your gas tank only partially full and the temperature shanges it can cause condensation inside your tank
Replace it.