95 Astro Van Rough Idlie & Strong Fuel Odor

[tony4jesus33]

Update: I put the ignition switch on the 'ON' position and let the pressure build up on the fuel pump and there the fuel return line began to gush out. I found the leak in the fuel line. But I looked at the fuel pressure regulator closely and did not see any leaks coming from it. I am wondering what to use to clean out the Plenum and how to remove all that filth. Do I vacuum it out or will it go down the drain holes that it has? Any advice, please post. Thank you in advance.

[old_master]

After you repair the leak, fuel pressure should be 60 to 66psi, key on, engine off, pump running. It must remain above 55psi for 3 to 5 minutes after the pump shuts off. If it drops below 55psi, there's a leak. Clean as much crud out as you can, then change the oil and filter.

[brcidd]

Looks like you found your leak- I assume its in the plastic lines-- which is a replaceable service kit- so go for it...That was where mine leaked..

Those holes go right into the air intake paths of #4 and #3- so I advise against that- that is why your plugs in those cylinders are wet---I don't clean that plenum out-- I'd rather let it go than to risk junk in my cylinders- I just clean any sealing surfaces and pick out any loose chunks- I figure it was dirty to begin with and what is it going to hurt after the leak is fixed?? If it bothers you- go ahead and clean it- but I figure it will be carboned up in about a month anyway--I never have seen a clean one- except where the leaky fuel gushes out and pressure washes that area only....Get your replacement parts in- be sure to get them seated properly in the regulator- oil the o-rings a tad and have it running tonight.....Good Job

[tony4jesus33]

I got the van all together and took her for a run and she is working great. It still needs more work but no more leak. I still have a small gas odor, but I'm pretty sure it's the Oxygen Sensor. I do have a question about the Oxygen Sensor. If the Oxygen Sensor is faulty, won't the 'Service Engine Soon' Light come on? Either it's that or it could be that exhaust leak somewhere in the manifold, catalytic converter or muffler. You could hear the exhaust leak as well as the leak in the muffler. I still have to change the Fuel Filter since it looks like it has been there for a long long time. I guess there's nothing else to post since my main problem has been resolved. I want to thank all those who has helped me get through a rough week.