Bummed Out On Rich Fuel Problems

[igya]

My '96 3 cyl has way too much black soot in exhaust pipe. I realize it's caused by a rich fuel mixture, but what can I do to lean it out? Will worn out O2 sensors cause that? I've cleaned the EGR ports and the diaphram seems to be working. The car runs pretty good, but my MPG are suffering. Sure would appreciate suggestions.

[DangerDude]

Igya .. I think the oxygen sensor controls fuel mixture. You have a "check engine" light" ? Maybe a scan tool could help pipoint the offending item?
Don't want to start throwing parts at it hoping to get lucky (like me)
Those little items are getting too pricey for that strategy anymore. It's not like adjusting the choke rod or float level back when things were easy.
(of course it's gonna be easy once you fiind out just what it is)
Somebody help us here ..??
DangerDude

[igya]

Originally Posted by DangerDude

Igya .. I think the oxygen sensor controls fuel mixture. You have a "check engine" light" ? Maybe a scan tool could help pipoint the offending item?
Don't want to start throwing parts at it hoping to get lucky (like me)
Those little items are getting too pricey for that strategy anymore. It's not like adjusting the choke rod or float level back when things were easy.
(of course it's gonna be easy once you fiind out just what it is)
Somebody help us here ..??
DangerDude

Yep, I think you're exactly right. These O2 sensors are pretty bnasty. I just wasn't sure if THEY controled the fuel mixture or not. Thanks friend!

[GM Line Rat]

Originally Posted by igya

Yep, I think you're exactly right. These O2 sensors are pretty bnasty. I just wasn't sure if THEY controled the fuel mixture or not. Thanks friend!

The question that was asked was "Is the check engine light on in the dash of or not??? If it is, have it scanned with a code reader for free at autozone etc.. (Should be code 13 for a bad O2 Sensor)......Your car may also have 2 O2 Sensors in it since it's a 96 Model year, 1 "Before the catalytic convertor" and 1 after it. The scan tool will tell you which one "Might" be bad or out of range and needs to be replaced. My says buy a AC-Delco O2 Sensor, dont buy a Bosch unless that's all they have...... .