running rich

[gsx4357]

hey guys...i know i need a tune but i just want some advice and/or opinions.

noticed today when i let my car warm up that my exhaust was smoking just a little bit and i went to see and smell it and it was all gas...i reved the car a bit and i could see fuel coming out of my exhaust. a buddy of mine and my girlfriend both said they could see fire coming out of my exhaust i think when im under heavy acceleration...i would of thought if anything i would be running lean not rich. what do you guys think? and yes i know i need a tune. just waiting for some extra cash.

 

[GRAVEDIGGER]

If it looks rich, smells rich, and shoots flames I'd say it IS rich. You need a wideband to know for sure. Good luck and yes, it's time for a tune.

 

[XiKeiyaZI]

For the Record :

Heavy fuel = Rich Condition
Lack of Fuel = Lean Condition

Rich smells just as you'd expect - gassy. It can sometimes be as bad as to spit and sputter fuel itself or ugly black flakes and smog. Usually by this time your 02 sensor, plugs, cat, and overall exhaust system are completely caked/fouled/drenched.

Lean, I've always noted, smells odd. It's like a subtle choking feeling and it's just... it smells like a strong hidden burnt smell that turns your stomach. That's my experience anyhow. Lean conditions can cause things to melt as things get very hot.

Just as Matt said, you need a wideband to know for sure exactly HOW rich you're running as if you're igniting in the exhaust you're obviously running rich. The question is - how rich? For now I would check basics. Spark - Wires - Coil - FPR - Boost/Vacuum Leaks - The General.

 

[DOHCTA]

get that delt with sooner than later or else you'll end up burning your rings!

 

[Abe'sGST]

like mentioned above, start with the basics, plugs, wires, fpr, etc. do not drive it if its running as rich as you described...do you have the stock injectors?

 

[gsx4357]

yes their stock injectors and all i have is this car to drive...i drive around 100 miles a day...but does seem to run rich when im driving normally...seems like only at idle and when i switch gears

 

[GRAVEDIGGER]

Is your bov recirculated?

 

[XiKeiyaZI]

Even if it's not, at idle the BOV being recirculated or not shouldn't matter.

 

[gsx4357]

yes it recirculated but i reset my ecu and it doesnt seem to be running rich anymore...i still have to check but i dont think it is