Running Rich video

[Spike Kellermann]

You did a great job with the explaining what to do/look for when running lean(vacuum leaks!). However, on your page, and in your videos, I have yet to see anything that tackles what to do for running rich. I am currently running rich, and I followed your advice to tackle CELs first. I was getting p420, it was hotter going in than out of the cat, replaced cat as recommended in your videos. By the way, there was a noticeable performance improvement, which I originally thought was a slipping transmission on my 219,000 mile 1997 Honda Accord LX. Thanks.

Now if you could tackle a running rich video, I would love to know what needs to be looked at there.

Topic

[EricTheCarGuy]

The videos I make are based on what comes into the shop. Since I don’t have as much coming in these days there’s less opportunity to produce that type of video. Also, a rich condition is less common than a lean condition. This is probably why it hasn’t come up yet. When it does I’ll be sure to make a video.

BTW you want to address the rich condition before replacing the cat. A rich condition can damage a catalytic converter. Also, it’s quite possible a lean condition can cause the computer to command a rich condition.

Thanks for the suggestion.

[Spike Kellermann]

I completely understand not having a video on it now. Is it possible to write up and list possible reasons for running rich, to add to your main page? http://www.ericthecarguy.com/index.php

I absolutely agree I need to find the cause of the rich condition. After it warms up, it doesn’t run terribly rich, however idles around 850, not 650 where I believe it should(although, it sometimes WILL idle at 650, so that runs out throttle cable restrictions).

I swapped the catalytic converter and O2 sensors as they could have been causing the issue, and while they have made it better, I’m stuck where to look next.

I will give the car a good look over and double check for a vacuum leak or anywhere where pirate air could be entering the system. I’ve already verified with a friend plugging the exhaust, that there are no exhaust leaks. At least not at idle while sitting in the garage.

I’ve got the service manual I found online, and I’ve gone through it without much luck finding anything for running rich(although several of your suggestions I noticed in there). Even things you mentioned in the timing belt video I bought from you. (Thanks again, that thing was a huge time saver). (note, it ran rich before the timing belt, stayed the same after). Although, it seems like more of an issue during the colder months like now, than during the warm summer months.

I greatly appreciate all the advice you give and have been more than glad to buy the Accord videos you offer. Well worth each penny.

Unimportant issues, I don’t think are affecting it.
-need a new front axle, this will be next. Bellows boot is also cracked and will be replaced. Planning on getting my alignment and wheels balanced right after.
-need to replace the rear drum brakes. Last time I went in for an oil change, they told me they were out of adjustment and needed to be replaced(no, I don’t do my own oil. The dealership and oil places send me coupons for $12.99-$21.99 oil changes. The oil and filter are never cheaper than $23).
-oil leak. I don’t think its coming from the oil pan gasket. I don’t think it’s coming from the valve cover. Appears to be somewhere in the back of the engine. Not quite sure. I always find oil on everything in the back.

[EricTheCarGuy]

I’ll look into it but I wouldn’t expect it anytime soon. I have a lot on my plate right now that I want to take care of first.

As to your specific issue, I would post it to the forum to see what you can come up with.

Thanks again for the suggestions.

[Author]

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