Evap leak repair

[Caravan05850]

I have a 2000 Caravan, 3.3L with the dreaded P0445 code (large evap leak). I replaced some metal hose going from the charcoal canister to the fuel tank which was leaking, but I still have the code returning after I erase it with my scanner. I'm going to try replacing the fuel cap although I've read that is rarely the cause. Should I just start tracing all the hoses in the evap system and replacing them?

[mfahey]

I have both the large and small leak codes for mine. I have traced all of the hoses looking for leaks, replaced either all or virtually all of the clamps and still can't find the problem. I have decided that I've done all I can do as a DIYer and am going to take it to a mechanic with a smoke machine.

[Caravan05850]

Did you replace the gas cap? How about the filler hose going to the tank?

[MrBiglund]

Try blowing through the purge solenoid, if you can blow through it, then it's toat. I got a used one from the wreckers for 10 bucks and it solved the problem.

[mfahey]

Did you replace the gas cap? How about the filler hose going to the tank?

I haven't done that and maybe I should before resorting to paying someone. It's just that, as I'm sure we all do, I prefer working on a problem with a known solution. Floundering around without knowing for sure that I'm actually fixing something isn't my favorite thing.
I hadn't thought of the purge solenoid and since I was going to go to the salvage yard anyway to try to find a replacement for my rusted hood, I'll pick one of those up as well.

[bmann223]

I just replaced my fuel pump, fuel filter and spark plugs on Friday and today I get a new problem. Codes P0442 & 0445 small and large leak in the EVAP system. What the heck is that? Let me know how yours turns out so I can start working on mine. Is it going to cause issues driving around with the leak?

[bmann223]

Try blowing through the purge solenoid, if you can blow through it, then it's toat. I got a used one from the wreckers for 10 bucks and it solved the problem.

Where and what is the purge solenoid?

[mfahey]

It's up by the radiator cap. There is a bolt with a 10mm head holding it to the body which is tucked away and a little hard to see. I tested mine last night using the blow through method and it was fine.
It is used to purge gasoline vapors that have accumulated in the charcoal canister. There is a vacuum line from it to the intake plenum that takes the vapors away from the canister into the engine.

[MrBiglund]

On my 96 3.0L it was on the front, towards the passenger side. Has two lines going into it and a electrical connector. If you can blow air through it then it's bad, the solenoid isn't working.

[Caravan05850]

I've replaced the hoses on top of the engine, checked the selonoid and replaced the gas cap and the code is back (0455). The only place I haven't looked is the pump located under the engine cradle, which I believe will require that I remove the cradle to access it. Could be a bad hose there.

[mrbizness1]

Try blowing through the purge solenoid, if you can blow through it, then it's toat. I got a used one from the wreckers for 10 bucks and it solved the problem.

In addition to my caravan I have to late 90's Nissans. Both have had ses lights turned on by clogged or non working purge solinoids. Sometimes they can be removed and sprayed with wd40 to loosen them up.

[Caravan05850]

I was not able to blow thru my solenoid.

[mrbizness1]

I was not able to blow thru my solenoid.


I have read posts where owners have smacked them against a bench to loosen the diaphragm inside to get them working. Might be worth a try.

[Caravan05850]

But from what I have read, you should NOT be able to blow thru the solenoid.

[mrbizness1]

The solinoid has a small pin or diaphram that moves when prompted by the cars computer. On some of them you can use a nail to loosen it. You should also check the vacuum hoses. It is a $70.00 item at RockAuto.com

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r100/mrbizness1/dodgepurgesolinoid.jpg