Where isthe PCV Value

[Alphid]

I am in the process of changing my PCV value and I had a major problem in regards to the fixing process, I am not sure where it is.

Does anyone here point me in the correct direction?
Olds - 2001 - 3.4 V6

Thanks,

[JTrujillo86]

I believe your are talking about the PCV valve...If so it is located on the cylinder bank closest to the front of the vehicle on the drivers side. Basically it is plugged into the valve cover with a hose connected to it. Anyway, removal and installation are as follows:
1) Remove the vacuum hose from the PCV valce. Inspect the hose, checking for swelling, cracking, or brittleness. Replace the hose as necessary.
2) Remove the PCV valve. Inspect the valve by shaking it and listening for a rattle. If the valve doesn't rattle, replace it. (You may also check for proper vacuum by just removing the hose and plugging it for a second or two. If there is no suction, then there is obviously something wrong).
3) Inspect the grommet on the valve cover. If it is cracked or swollen, it must be replaced.

Installation:
1) Install the PCV valve into the grommet in the valve cover.
2) Connect the vacuum hose to the PCV valve.

...and that's it. Just curious though, why are you replacing the valve? The only reason to do so would be because a rough idle, stalling, high idle speed or slow idle speed.

Jeremy

[Alphid]

From what I've read this should be changed ever 12000 miles. Have you heard something different or feel that it doens't need to be changed that often?

I ended up replacing it and let me tell you that it was easier that writing this post. It took possibly 1 minute to do it.

Thanks for all the help.

A

[JTrujillo86]

I am one of those go-by-the-manual type guys. I may do some items sooner just because I'm anal like that, but there is nothing in the maual that talks about replacing the PCV valve. Some dealers that I have been to recommend replacement at 30K, but I've never replaced mine. Did you notice a difference in the way your car runs? How much was the valve?

BTW, when you took the original valve out, did it rattle when you shook it?

Jeremy

[Alphid]

It did rattle but it just looked a little worn. The cost was only about 10 dollars and I figure if it didn't need to be changed it I'm only out 10 dollars. Everytime that I go and get my oil changed they inform me that it should be done every 12000 but maybe that's a little plan on there to get a couple extra dollars.

Thanks for the reply,

[JTrujillo86]

No problem.

- Jeremy

[DamienZ28]

Normally if it rattles its still good you can also blow on it to test it PCV stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation It really is suppose to help gas milage alittle but in my opion it just halps make more carbon build up LOL You can get them for 5-10 bucks why not replace everyonce in awhile...

[DamienZ28]

The PCV replaced the breather... you know that little filter on a valve cover from the old days. This way instead of venting exaust type gasses it can be recycled and burned. I left that part out sorry

[MNosbor]

I have noticed when replacing mine that they still rattle I change them anyway.

The thing that it affects on my v-6 is gas mileage. My mech didnt believe me but I had let it go way past 17,000mi and changed it and then did the mileage and it was better. I usually do it myself but it was in for other stuff and I had him pop one in.

Just remember that if you get a bad one that it will throw a check engine code replace it with another brand. I use carquest with no problems.

[JTrujillo86]

I just replaced mine with a Fram valve. It was $2.09. I'll let you know if I get better MPG. BTW, I don't think this had ever been change on my car. It has 33K miles and the old valve was the color of metal that had been rusting for five years. Hopefully, the new valve will help stuff.

Jeremy

[MNosbor]

Yeah.... Jeremy let me know. Id be interested to know if it works for anyone else.