Positive Crankcase Ventilation

The PCV system consists of the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve, grommet, tube, and an air supply hose to the crankcase. Check around these fittings for any signs of oil. Everything must be tight. Oil leakage indicates a problem with the system.

PCV valve system.

A drop in intake manifold vacuum occurs when the engine is accelerated. When the intake manifold vacuum is low, a light spring holds the PCV valve in its open position. The open valve results in maximum crankcase ventilation. Conversely, when the engine is idle, a high intake manifold vacuum pulls the valve upward, blocking the port to the intake manifold.

PCV Valve Symptoms

Symptoms of a faulty PCV Valve.

A stuck closed PCV valve results in excessive crankcase pressure. It forces oil past the engine's seals and gaskets. A stuck open PCV valve or leaking hose results in a large vacuum leak, a rough idle, and drivability issues like surging. A closed or tarnished PCV valve can cause engine oil to back up into the breather.

PCV Valve Testing

A PCV valve should rattle when shaken.

Most PCV valves contain a light spring and should rattle when shaken. If the valve doesn't rattle, it's clogged and needs replacement. At idle, with the PCV valve removed from the valve cover, there should be an engine vacuum at the PCV valve inlet. Placing your thumb over the leaking valve should plug the vacuum leak.