GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Crankcase Ventilation (CV) System Inspection

    • Test for vacuum at the foul air hose where it connects to the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve. There should be manifold vacuum present at the hose. If there is no vacuum, inspect for a plugged hose, leaking hose or a plugged intake manifold crankcase ventilation vacuum passage.
    • Plug the end of the foul air hose while the engine is running. Inspect the hose for any areas that collapse when the end of the hose is blocked. Replace the hose if it collapses when blocked.
    • If oil has accumulated in the intake air duct, inspect for the following conditions:
       - Plugged PCV valve.
       - Plugged foul air hose
       - Plugged intake manifold crankcase ventilation vacuum passage.
       - Missing or damaged PCV to valve rocker arm cover grommet.
       - Excessive air leakage past engine gaskets and/or seals preventing a vacuum condition in crankcase.
       - Excessive crankcase pressure or blow-by, refer to Cylinder Leakage Test .
    • Additional items to inspect:
       - Plugged or leaking fresh air vent hose.
       - Plugged or restricted passages in the throttle body
       - Missing, damaged, or leaking; PCV to valve rocker arm cover grommet, valve rocker arm cover seals, oil pan seal, and all other crankcase seals and sealing areas for leaks.

Results of Incorrect Operation

A plugged PCV valve or foul air hose may contribute to the following conditions:

    • A rough idle
    • Stalling or a slow idle speed
    • Oil leaks
    • Oil accumulation in the intake air duct
    • Sludge in the engine

A leaking PCV valve or hose may contribute to the following conditions:

    • A rough idle
    • Stalling
    • Unstable idle speed