HHO: Is it alchemy? Or will it improve gas mileage on a ’99 4.0 SOHC Explorer?

[aldive]

A/F test results

I wanted to determine the A/F ratio while using HHO in my truck (1) at idle (2) 65 MPH highway cruise and (3) WOT ( short burst only ). I have this data from a previous test of this particular PCM tune without using HHO for a comparison.

Note: this PCM tune is forcing closed loop operation from start up and has a good delay before switching to open loop at WOT. This explains why the WOT readings are what they are. In the short run at WOT, the trucked stayed in closed loop.

Without HHO:
(1) Idle – 14.7
(2) Highway cruise 65 MPH – 14.7
(3) WOT – 14.7
All of the above readings are rock steady

With HHO running

(1) Idle – 14.5-14.6
(2) Highway cruise at 65 MPH – 14.4-14.6
(3) WOT – 14.4-14.5

All speeds GPS determined. All air/fuel ratio data determined by using an Innovate Motorsports wideband LM-1 A/F meter (http://www.innovatemotorsports.com/products/lm1.php ). The operation state ( closed/open loop ) was determined by OBD II scanner.

 

[brihan]

Since I don't what this thread to get off topic from HHO I have started a new thread about the possibility of free energy from an alternator driven off the drive shaft and a deep cycle battery.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1963290#post1963290

I have also joined this site as an "Elite" member. The $20/year is a great deal and I'm sure everyone here has either saved $20 with info from this site or has had at least $20 worth of enjoyment just reading the threads. I would encourage everyone to join as a courtesy to the developer of this site.

http://www.explorerforum.com/elite.html


Take care,

Brian

 

[aldive]

What's next ….

I will be installing O2 sensor extension adapters on the front two O2 sensors only. I turned off the rear sensors in the PCM tune.

And what the heck, while I am at it, I might even replace the front 2 O2 sensors with new ones; they only have 143k miles on them.

 

[V8BoatBuilder]

I will be installing O2 sensor extension adapters on the front two O2 sensors only...

Forgive me if this has been covered already, but how will spacing the O2 sensors out away from the exhaust flow change their readings, as the gas in the exhaust pipe is unchanged?

 

[aldive]

Forgive me if this has been covered already, but how will spacing the O2 sensors out away from the exhaust flow change their readings, as the gas in the exhaust pipe is unchanged?

They way I understand the concept is that by spacing the O2 sensor out of the direct path of the exhaust gas, it "senses" less O2 in the exhaust. Resulting in fooling the PCM as to the O2 level in the exhaust.

Will they work? I have my doubts but will give them a fair shot.

 

[CDW6212R]

That looks just like an old spark plug arrestor I believe, they kept plugs from seeing so much oil. If the O2 sensor is made less sensitive and sees less exhaust, doesn't that result in lower O2 readings? That would be the goal Yes?

 

[aldive]

That looks just like an old spark plug arrestor I believe, they kept plugs from seeing so much oil. If the O2 sensor is made less sensitive and sees less exhaust, doesn't that result in lower O2 readings? That would be the goal Yes?

Yes.

 

[V8BoatBuilder]

That looks just like an old spark plug arrestor I believe, they kept plugs from seeing so much oil. If the O2 sensor is made less sensitive and sees less exhaust, doesn't that result in lower O2 readings? That would be the goal Yes?

Since the O2 sensor is basically a generator, creating voltage when it senses O2, then it just might work.

 

[aldive]

Since the O2 sensor is basically a generator, creating voltage when it senses O2, then it just might work.

Agreed. Hopefully I shall have some hard data shortly.

 

[V8BoatBuilder]

Agreed. Hopefully I shall have some hard data shortly.

Although, if the object is merely to reduce the voltage output of the O2 sensor, I think an electronic solution, such as a varistor, which could be adjusted or bypassed on the fly would be a more "tunable" solution.

 

[aldive]

Although, if the object is merely to reduce the voltage output of the O2 sensor, I think an electronic solution, such as a varistor, which could be adjusted or bypassed on the fly would be a more "tunable" solution.

I am "afraid" that you are correct. I am just hoping the extenders will work ( a very cheap fix ).

 

[Blacksheep Josh]

I am "afraid" that you are correct. I am just hoping the extenders will work ( a very cheap fix ).

Meaning that the extenders is a "if it works leave it" or "if it doesn't I'll tune it differently" ?

 

[aldive]

Meaning that the extenders is a "if it works leave it" or "if it doesn't I'll tune it differently" ?

Actually its just the first step in the trial to determine what works best.

 

[CDW6212R]

Exactly, let's leave that fancy VMU(linked elsewhere) as a last resort.

 

[Blacksheep Josh]

Actually its just the first step in the trial to determine what works best.

I see now.

If I could pass out cards to my friends with the http for the "My Quest for 30" I would.

friend: "Well Josh, guess you'll be getting rid of your explorer... seeing as how it chugs gas"

me : "Well not exactly... there's this guy named Aldive....."

 

[dkchrist]

Aldive, just so I am clear your A/F before HHO is 14.7 which is pretty much optimum but after is 14.6 or less this means your running fat (over fueling). That doesn't sound like it is helping but this is the predicted result correct? I have read through the entire thread trying to catch up everything discussed so far.

Another thing the oxygen sensor monitors simple oxygen (O2) and not the compounds correct? All the readouts counter what the HHO should be doing. (i.e. lowered A/F ratio because of increased exhaust oxygen = less fuel burned)

Also another matter power drawn by these thing I have heard claims of 3.1 amp @ 95 volts equates to roughly 300 watts or 25 amps at 12 volts that is a lot of current.

Any more results to be posted?

I will stay tuned....(grabbing popcorn)

P.S. Sorry, guys for continually pulling out the downer points but these are the things that will help me understand the effectiveness of the process. I am all for alternative energy and this ridiculous fuel price was a long time coming. As well, Thanks to those who have patience turning the naysayers.

 

[bigman4921]

quick Question

why is a pwm so important I think i understand what they do, I just might be over looking the importance.

 

[Jakee]

Why not just change the stoich from 14.64 to what every you want as a test Like 16:1. That means you don't have to "fool" the 02 sensors cuss they will make corrections based on the new stoich in the tune.

Forgive me I missed something as I've just scanned threw this thread.

 

[CDW6212R]

If the difference only amounted to a tenth of a point or two, there is no problem. The worry is that with a usable amount of HHO gas, the A/F ratio might end up 2-4 whole points off.

 

[aldive]

If the difference only amounted to a tenth of a point or two, there is no problem. The worry is that with a usable amount of HHO gas, the A/F ratio might end up 2-4 whole points off.

Actually the A/F will not be off by 2-4 points. The PCM will adjust such a lean condition and add fuel to try to reach 14.7.

This will result in no MPG gain or maybe a loss in MPG.