How to Buy a Quality Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve
Auto repair

How to Buy a Quality Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve

Forced crankcase ventilation (PCV) helps separate emission control devices; it directs the remaining combustion products from the bottom of the engine and oil pan back to the crankcase, where instead of…

Forced crankcase ventilation (PCV) helps separate emission control devices; it directs the remaining combustion products from the bottom of the engine and the oil pan back to the crankcase, where they do not escape into the atmosphere, but are burned in the combustion chambers.

While there are a few newer car models that don't have a valve to restrict the flow of gases, most vehicles on the road today have this part. The PCV valve serves to prevent clogging of the system by opening and closing on a schedule. If a part fails, it can result in sluggish acceleration, rough idle or increased oil consumption.

A few things to know about your PCV valve

  • The PCV is usually mounted on a valve stem or cap or at the end of a pipe, so its effectiveness is fairly easy to evaluate. Remove the valve and shake it, if a strong rattling sound is heard, then most likely the part is working.

  • Hoses and tubes carrying gases and exhaust gases are always at risk of clogging due to sludge buildup or excessive leakage. Cleaning the entire system whenever you change your car's air filter also reminds you to check the air flow through the PCV valve to make sure it's functioning properly.

  • Oil consumption increases with increasing pressure inside the crankcase. Couples that cannot leave the chamber cause a domino effect; oil will not flow past the gaskets and seals, resulting in increased pressure. Alternatively, too much air in the system will lighten the air/fuel mixture, which will likely cause the Check Engine light to come on.

  • Flowmeters are also a great tool to check if a part is working properly because they can test both airflow and vacuum at the same time.

Keeping your PCV valve and hose system in good working order ensures that the vehicle is getting the correct air/fuel ratio and also controls emissions.

AvtoTachki supplies high quality PCV valves to our certified mobile technicians. We can also install the PCV valve you have purchased. Click here for a quote and more information on PCV valve replacement.

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