1998 Charcoal filter change problems

[jeffdro]

Yes I was changing the rear shocks in my 98 limited explorer with a buddy of mine. Well I ended up having to drop the bracket that holds the charcoal filters up and the fittings to my charcoal filter broke off. I cant even find a replacement for it. I could use some information on if I actually need the filter and where to purchase one.

 

[my pos mounty]

That is part of the purge system for the smog control. Ford is the only source I found when I did the same exact thing. If removed it will trigger a CEL. (or at least it did on my truck)

 

[Carguy3J]

Maybe you can get one from the junkyard?

 

[jeffdro]

ya i actually found one but I am still looking for the connecting hoses but I drove the truck for like 15 miles and i did not get any check engine light or difference in driving or idle. I dont know how important it is but I figured it's there for a reason.

 

[Carguy3J]

It will take more then 15 miles to trigger the right conditions for setting that code, but it will happen. Depending on which hose is broken/disconnected, when the right conditions are met, and the system tries to purge the evap cannister into the engine, then instead of a measured amount of fuel vapor, it will pull air throught the open hose, and cause a lean condition. Along with setting the code, it could driveability issues, and even possibly cause eventual engine damage, if left unfixed for too long.

 

[jeffdro]

yes you are right on the way to the store this morning the check engine light came on. I actually used the 2 part airplane and nitro car 15 min epoxy and fixed the plastic fitting that goes into the charcoal canister. I have used this stuff for different stuff ike this and it holds up awsome on plastic applications so i mixed some up because its a 2 part epoxy and used a toothpick to add it around the edges the put a little c-clamp to hold it and left it over night last night. I had some scrap metal laying around so I fabricated up a new support bracket for the 2 canisters then coated it with that rubberized undercoating and waiting for it to dry completely and gonna slap it in. I spent like 3 hours yesterday while i had all the tires off and the truck up on jack stands and took a hand held wire brush along with one i can put in my drill and cleaned up all the rust and then coated everything with that undercoating. Came out awesome gonna make a big difference in rust and other issues like that!