Positive Crankcase Ventilation: Testing and Inspection

Fig. 13 Check Vacuum At PCV Valve - Typical:

1. With engine idling, remove the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve from cylinder head (valve) cover. If the valve is not plugged, a hissing noise will be heard as air passes through the valve. Also, a strong vacuum should be felt at the valve inlet.

Fig. 14 Check Vacuum At Crankcase Breather Opening - Typical:

2. Install the PCV valve. Remove the crankcase breather/filter. Hold a piece of stiff paper, such as a parts tag, loosely over the opening of crankcase breather/filter at the cylinder head (valve) cover.
3. The paper should be drawn against the opening in the cylinder head (valve) cover with noticeable force. This will be after allowing approximately one minute for crankcase pressure to reduce.

Fig. 15 Shake PCV Valve - Typical:

4. Turn engine off and remove PCV valve from cylinder head (valve) cover. The valve should rattle when shaken.
5. Replace the PCV valve and retest the system if it does not operate as described in the preceding tests. Do not attempt to clean the old PCV valve.
6. If the paper is not held against the opening in cylinder head (valve) cover after new valve is installed, the PCV valve hose may be restricted and must be replaced. The passage in the intake manifold must also be checked and cleaned.
7. To clean the intake manifold fitting, turn a 1/4 inch drill (by hand) through the fitting to dislodge any solid particles. Blow out the fitting with shop air. If necessary, use a smaller drill to avoid removing any metal from the fitting.