P1443 EVAP Issue

[jrwalte]

My computer shows the following codes

P1443 Evaporative emission control system purge control solenoid or vapor management valve malfunction

P1444 Purge Flow (PF) sensor ciruit low input

Does anyone know if this is something I can diagnose and deal with or do I have to take it to a professional?

I have a raw fuel smell coming from my car when the tank is full but not when it's half or below. I can even smell the vapors when driving down the road 50+, but only if the windows are down. This leads me to believe the issue is with one of the EVAP systems in my engine compartment and not the charcoal canister which is located in the rear with my fuel tank. Also, I have no pressure release from my fuel tank when I remove my gas cap. I see no visible gas leak on my fuel lines and the lines look to be in fine condition. The fuel filter was recently replaced.

[jrwalte]

I've determined that my canister purge valve is most likely the issue. However, my '97 Mercury 2.0L SOHC has two canister purge valves listed. Do I replace both?

Here is the part listing for both canisters.

Looking at the second diagram, with the colored purge valve, you can see the other purge valve directly to the right of it. Do I not worry about that one and only replace the colored one?

[12Ounce]

There is one "valve" and one "sensor". The valve is so small internally, it does not lend itself to easy, simple testing. You may just guess which one to change out first. I would take the sensor.

You also need to carefully check all hoses for cracks.

[jrwalte]

Originally Posted by 12Ounce

There is one "valve" and one "sensor". The valve is so small internally, it does not lend itself to easy, simple testing. You may just guess which one to change out first. I would take the sensor.

You also need to carefully check all hoses for cracks.

THanks for the reply. Using the diagram I linked above, is the sensor the non-colored, smaller one? Do you think a malfunctioning purge valve can be the cause of my vapor smells? Or is that most likely going to be a bad fuel line running to the purge valve, which in turn is causing the malfunction in the sensor?

[jrwalte]

I plan on replacing all hose coming from the charcoal canister to the purge valve, as I feel that's most likely what is causing the vapor leakage and in turn causing the P1443 code.

My question is, can I use the basic generic hose that autozone/advance sells, or does this require a special purpose hose?