Possible Drivability problem with 98 Chevy Venture

May 06, 2005 4 Replies
D

My 98 venture has 100,000 miles on it and I am just getting ready to replace the plugs - they have never been replaced and according to the maintenance schedule in my owners manual they are not due to be replaced until 100,000 miles - anyway generally speaking it has been running fine - the idle is getting a bit rough but I figure the plugs will correct that



Anyway one thing I am noticing is that the end of the tail pipe is black with carbon - this wouldnt bother me that much except that I have noticed on other vans of this model and vintage that this is not something that I see on them.



My knowledge of diagnosing and fixing driveability problems ended with the last car I owned that had a carberator and no computer - ( a 79 Firebird) - I am just wondering what the possible causes of this situation would be



Thanks in advance for any help



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H

Your black tailpipe suggests carbon from unburned fuel. Your planned tune-up may well take care of it. H

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M

I have the same year van also noticed the tailpipe carbon. I had the check engine light come on several times, then go off again a few trips later. Changing the plugs is a good idea, I changed mine already. A bit of advice, if you're going to change them yourself, be prepared for a bit of a battle. it's not that hard to do, just takes some time. I would also recommend changing the wires while your at it. As for me, the carbon is still there,next step is to replace the oxygen sensor. As soon as I can figure out which one should be changed.

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J

Those engines have a chronic intake manifold gasket failure problem, which often lets antifreeze get into the oil and/or the combustion chambers.

As a basic precaution, pull and oil sample and have it analyzed for traces of coolant. You can do so for $20 using

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or any of a number of other oil analysis companies.

As for replacing the plugs. Good idea, and the back ones are a PITA to get to. Have a look at a service manual first as it isn't as easy as on most vehicles.

John

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