mjr1001@pitt.edu wrote in
news:1107276196.831681.183080@z14g2000cwz.googlegr oups.com:

>
> motsco_ _ wrote:
>> -------------------------
>>
>> You've probably changed your timing belt at least twice by now, based
> on
>> age (we don't know your mileage), but have you adjusted your valves?
> Do
>> you have stinky exhaust once it warms up? Do your records show a new
> PCV
>> along the way?
>
> Actually it only has 77k on it, so the timing belt is most likely the
> original (I bought it with 43k). The exhaust doesnt smell unusually
> bad.
>
> As far as time to change the PCV, I think, well hope, that might me
> premature. Does anyone know if cleaning it out is easy/practical?
>
>


With the car fully warm, squeeze the PCV valve hose shut with a pair of
pliers. If the idle changes or the valve clicks, the valve is fine.

The idle will change, then smooth out again as the ECU adjusts the air
mixture. If the idle does not change when the hose is pinched shut, the
valve is plugged. Either way, a blocked PCV valve is not your problem here.
A blocked PCV valve will not cause the sort of decrease in gas mileage that
you are experiencing.

You need to get the Check Engine light code. Pull the carpet back from the
passenger footwell until you see the ECU. Turn the ignition to ON (but not
to START), and count the sequence of long and/or short blinks from the
ECU's red LED. Report back here.

Right now I'm thinking a faulty thermostat or temp sensor, fooling the ECU
into thinking the engine is too cool, but I need the code to verify.

--
TeGGeR®

The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ
www.tegger.com/hondafaq/