Here is the problem. There are two types of gasoline that are produced throughout the year. Summer blend and Winter blend. The summer blend runs fine. However, once the weather turns cold in the U.S.A./Texas, Nov./Dec. The refineries start producing the winter blend gasoline that contains chemicals (VOC's?) That keeps the gas from freezing. I happen to live in a region of Texas where it rarely freezes. In fact, our typical winter weather can reach 80 to 90 degrees. On these days, and specifically in Feb/March when temps can be higher than 95 degrees, the gasoline in the gas tank will boil. When the gas boils it creates vapors thus vapor locking the engine and/or fuel lines. Originally I thought it was the fuel filter. By the time I replaced the fuel filter (15 to 20 minutes) the engine would start and run fine. On one occasion I replaced the fuel filter 3 times within 10 miles of driving. I carry spares and reuse the old ones. However, now I attribute that fix to releasing the pressure/air/vapors in the fuel line, not the fuel filter. Yes I have replaced the MAP sensor, due to another problem, done a complete tune-up, has good fuel pressure and both fuel pumps are working fine. Etc. Etc.
A mechanic told me a few years ago about this summer/winter blend gasoline. He suggested using Marvel Mystery Oil in my gas tank especially during the winter months. And no, this is not a sales pitch for Marvel Mystery Oil (MMO). However, it did help for a few years. At least I wasn't replacing fuel filters 2 to 3 times per month during the winter.
This past winter (2008) and now I am expecting it to happen this winter (2009), even after using the MMO, my bronco will sputter and stall. If I wait an hour or two, the bronco will start and drive on but this is very inconvenient.
So with that brief history. Here is my question. Does anyone know of a cure to this problem?
Would replacing the charcoal canister help to allow the vapors to escape? This was suggested by another mechanic. My bronco still has the original canister. There is rougly 290k miles on it. FWIW, I have only replaced the tranny (2 years ago) and the engine runs strong. KOW (Knock on Wood).
Is there a way to release the vapors from the fuel line without having to disconnect the fuel filter?
Thanks in advance!
(edited to correct spelling)
SPONSORED LINKS
Saturday, January 24th, 2009 AT 11:07 AM