Damaged vapor canister throwing P0443 code

[fireroad]

Long time lurker, first time poster. Always been impressed with the level of knowledge and the professionalism of the folks on this forum.

 

I have a 01 Sierra 1500 4wd 5.3 with 155k miles. I have recently been dealing with the P0440 code and started diagnosing by replacing the original gas cap. I just took it in yesterday to have the codes cleared to make sure the P0440 was fixed and a new code came up: P0443.

 

I've researched this forum and have found the solution to this problem is electrical in nature and connected to the vapor canister purge valve. I have not done anything with it but I know to check for a frayed or broken wire first (with test bulb), check the connection at the VCPV, the lastly replace the VCPV. I was going to start this last night after I changed by fuel filter but happened to notice this while under the truck:

 

 

That is a damaged vapor canister correct?

Could this be throwing the P0443 code?

How soon do I need to fix it?

Do I need any other parts then ACDelco 215-363?

 

Thanks in advance! - Brian

[Jsdirt]

Yep - looks like ya had some fun off roadin' and smashed it.

 

You only have to fix it if you have emission testing where you live. The EVAP system does absolutely nothing to/for the trucks function. The system is designed to empty your wallet at regular intervals - that's it's sole purpose. Seriously ...

[Chris]

how does it empty your wallet

[Jsdirt]

Throws CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, you fail inspection, get pulled over because you have a REJECTION sticker & pay fines & insurance surcharges for 3-6 years, depending on which state you live in. Now you have to fix it. PLUS, parts & labor for something that has no bearing on whether or not the truck starts, runs, & gets you to work on time.

[fireroad]

Yep - looks like ya had some fun off roadin' and smashed it.

 

You only have to fix it if you have emission testing where you live. The EVAP system does absolutely nothing to/for the trucks function. The system is designed to empty your wallet at regular intervals - that's it's sole purpose. Seriously ...

 

 

If there truly is no performance issues with lack of a vapor canister that is great news!

 

I live in New Mexico (like old mexico but without the smell ) and there is no such thing as "emisions testing" unless you live in Albuquerque so no worries there. I have no problem saving money and putting a black piece of tape over the SES light (it wouldn't be the first time on one of my gm trucks). My concern is making sure I am not decreasing the life of the vehicle by not fixing this...

 

PS- It was not from off-roading, it was from the 3/4 mile trip each way from my house to pavement everyday...thus my username

[Jsdirt]

Without the smell ... nice!

 

Your a lucky man to live in a free state.

 

Someday I shall move to one ....

[gmtech4]

evap manages fuel fumes and burns them in a complicated manor ,,,prevents fuel tank from collapsing etc ,,,

 

both canadian and US gov'ts caving to the enviro peeps

 

my opinion only of course

[markw8]

It tends to help keep the air clear and people breathing easies.

 

Mark

[Jsdirt]

Gimme a freakin break Mark. Seriously - do you have any idea how many chemicals get released into the atmosphere daily, that are 100x worse than gasoline?

 

I have asthma ... so I'd die first. I'm still here ... and I have my face in the stuff every single day!

[fireroad]

So does anyone disagree with JSDIRT that I can put off fixing this (until I move to an emissions testing state or sell the truck) and not suffer an performance or gas mileage issues?

[00Silverado4x4]

evap manages fuel fumes and burns them in a complicated manor ,,,prevents fuel tank from collapsing etc ,,,

 

both canadian and US gov'ts caving to the enviro peeps

 

my opinion only of course

 

Fuel vapor release being the "worst" external (environmental) problem, I have to agree with Rob on the internal (your truck) problem on this one. I'd get it fixed. Plus if you tape over the Check Engine Light for the NOW problem, how will you tell if you get a THEN problem later that is more critical?

[fireroad]

I understand and agree with Rob except for the "prevents the fuel tank from collapsing"...do you have a source or anicdotal evidence to support that statement? I only ask as I have never heard of that happening before and can not think of a situation in which that would occur. Not saying he is wrong, just looking for more technical info on the matter

[00Silverado4x4]

http://www.batauto.com/Forums/index.php?topic=5445.0

http://www.justanswer.com/chevy/0s9gd-cause-fuel-tank-2000-chevy-pickup-collapse.html

http://www.2carpros.com/questions/chevrolet-silverado-1998-chevy-silverado-fuel-tank-collapsed

http://www.aboutautomobile.com/Complaint/1998/Chevrolet/Silverado/Fuel+Tank

 

I came up with some other articles but they were for other application and/or manufactuerers. However they all basically said the same thing, the tank failed to equilize internal pressure due to bad vent valve and caused their tanks to collapse. Back in the olden days of vented gas caps and vented fuel tanks the problem was near impossible, now adays it's pretty easy, but at least you get the tale tell light to tell you something is amiss in your vehicle.

[gmtech4]

thx mark ,saved me a post ....wait .... lol

[Jsdirt]

Vent it to the atmosphere like they did for 100 years prior ... and like every single piece of lawn equipment in North America is.

 

Problem solved.