PCV Valve System/Vacuum Leak?

Question

Hi...my "transmission" problems on my 1998 Ford Escort turned out to be a vacuum leak caused by the PCV Valve hose melting and having a big hole. I need to buy a new case and hose for the PCV valve because its torn at the connection. For the hell of it I put duct tape over the hole..the car is running alot better now and im going to have that all fixed ASAP but Im wondering if it was a better idea to have the hole opened or duct taped shut? Do you think that driving around for a few weeks could have permanently damaged my engine?

When i say duct taped shut i mean wrapped around the hole not totally closing it off, however im sure less than half of the proper vacuum is going thru it still because of the way the hose is flexed.

Answer 1

Leave it a little open until you get it fixed, and if its working I wouldnt worry about fixing it until your renewal of plates are needed, the PCV Valve and hose can get pretty costly. No damage will occure to your engine if you drive around with it the way it is, its a quick fix and nothing to worry about.

Answer 2

its better to have the hole completely covered.with the hole there you've probably had a check engine lite on with a code. for running lean.i don't think you've done any damage to the car since you've said it run's better with the tape.but you will need to replace the pcv hose,and i would also replace the pcv to, for preventive maintenance.their is alot of heat under the hood and any kinds of tape won't last.they'll break a part and get sucked right into your engine.....so just replace it...

Answer 3

Tape up the hose hole ENTIRELY using electrical tape (works better than duct tape). That will solve everything. Can't you simply just replace the hose? Maybe I don't understand your question, or you're not describing well enough.