I had a rough idle. Pulled the PCV valve and it was clogged so I changed it. Used CRC throttle cleaner, throttle body has a lot of buildup, and cleaned really well.... result, smooth idle and the pick up is a lot smoother. Thank you for the video. BTW, I have a 2001 Saturn SL1.
Hi John Copeland, thank you for your comment and for watching. I am happy I was able to help keep your 19 year old Saturn SL1 running smooth...Saving money and the environment--a win win. All the best, H.D.H. [: { ]
Thanks a bunch. Bought one of these for $500 with 220k miles and Im at 247k now. Best investment ever haha, saved so much on gas. Replaced basically every valve/sensor, this was the last one. She's running fantastic, better than my previous 2 cars. Love these things. They drive like a giant kart! Previous owner replaced the clutch at 180k so I should get a bit more out of her, when that goes she's scrap :')
Hi Bruce The Snoose, yes, you hit it on the head, these Saturns drive like a go-kart and I love that it does. I am really happy that you are getting more miles out of your Saturn and I hope that you get many more. You should buy a few spare PCV valves as they are getting in short supply (the plastic end of the PCV is very difficult to remove and replace onto the metal so OEM PCVs work best) and anything else you can get your hands on. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
The 1.9 liter engine in these older saturns is a good engine but they do tend to clog with carbon, What I do is clean the throttle body, EGR valve and check the PCV valve and TPS sensor all at the same time while I'm at it. Also another tip for these Saturns is if you ever replace the starter go ahead and replace the crankshaft sensor at the same time and save yourself trouble down the line, it's a cheap part anyways and it's right behind the starter. My crankshaft sensor went bad somewhere around 220k miles
Hi MissAmazanda, thanks for watching and letting me know your cleaning routine. Yes, I would endorse your manner of thoroughly cleaning the throttle body, EGR valve, PCV, TPS sensor at the time. I think I will adopt this as a best practice. The suggestion about replacing the CPS when replacing the starter is a great tip, as it is difficult to access without removing the starter. Thanks and all the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
Sounds like solid advice that I will follow. I was given a free 1999 Saturn SC2 with some issues so I am watching all of the UA-cam videos to learn all I can. The more I learn the more I am appreciating this car. I was planning on selling it but I might change my mind. The body is solid and has low mileage.
plugged pcv wont cause milky oil. You have a coolant leak, or you put antifreeze instead of oil in your valve cover. Head gasket probably. Throttle body cleaner is fine for spraying in throttle bodies, carbs, i guarantee after he cleaned everything all the sludge came back
Hi stuart walker, thanks for watching and providing your comments. Your experience is different than mine. I posted the video about a week after I performed the repair on Mar. 24, 2019. Since that time, I have periodically checked and the white/beige sludge has stopped forming. I believe about six months ago, the PCV valve was not sounding as 'tinny' as it normally does when I shook it, so I did clean it out with some cleaner and so far the milky sludge has not built up again. The coolant leak hypothesis, while possible, is incorrect/inapplicable in my specific situation as my coolant levels have remained level (I have not needed to refill the overfill container) and the coolant itself has maintained it color and consistency--this is even after the the hot summer months. In my experience with another vehicle, I have seen a leaky head gasket/cracked intake manifold can cause coolant discoloration and sludge buildup as you noted, but that does not mean one can exclude the possibility that the PCV valve could and can create the milky buildup. As an experiment, take some regular motor oil and mix it vigorously with an electric blender--it will turn milky right before your eyes. This also happens if you overfill the oil. Thanks, H.D.H. [: { ].
do you remember the size of that pcv hose that connects back to the intake? kinda looks like 3/8. i am looking to replace it and the part is discontinued. thinking of using fuel line to withstand the vacuum pressure
I know when it is cold out, it’s normal to see a small bit of that mayo like stuff on the oil cap. Especially if you don’t drive long enough to fully warm up the car.
Hi Agostino DiBella, thanks for watching and sending me your comment. Yes, while it is typical, it really does gum up the PCV valve and other entry/exit ports. If you are seeing it, it may be an idea to keep your vehicle idling a little bit longer before starting on your trip. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
Hi nicole westwood, thanks for watching and sending me your question. The canister purge valve on the Saturn SL2 can be a bit of a challenge to locate. It is underneath the Right Rear wheel (Driver's side) next to the gas fill tube (on the side that is in the direction of the front of the vehicle). You will have to remove the rear wheel and the plastic inner covers. You will see it if you look up towards the top of the wheel area. If you need further help or diagrams, please let me know. Hope this helps. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
@@cherrismythe3000 Hi nicole westwood, your very welcome. Hope your repair is successful and satisfying...lets keep your Saturn running til its an antique...H.D.H.
Hi nicole westwood. Earlier I gave you instructions on how to locate the VENT VALVE/SOLENOID. This is also known as a Canister close valve. This device controls the outside air in and out of the charcoal canister (the canister is where the EVAP system temporarily stores fuel vapors so they do not escape into the atmosphere). If this is faulty it will create a Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light. A malfunctioning Vent Valve will make it difficult for you to refuel. This is what I thought you meant by 'canister purge valve'. There is another device known as an Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) CANISTER PURGE SOLENOID VALVE. This device controls the fuel vapor entering into the engine when you start it. This too can create a Check Engine light, but it is typically accompanied by a rough idle and difficulty starting the engine especially after you refuel the vehicle. Which symptoms are you experiencing and which device are you specifically trying to locate. I don't want to mislead you as the two devices are located in very different locations (I want to guide you as well as I can). Also, if you can tell me, is your engine a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) or a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC). If you don't know, that is ok, it would just make the instructions I send to you a little more specific to your situation. Please let me know and I will try to help. All the best, H.D.H. [: { ]
Hi Carbage Man, thanks for watching and your comment. Yes, I agree it is better to replace the PCV valve; however, in some situations it may be better to clean a clogged valve until you are able to obtain the specific part. Saturn went bankrupt many years ago and parts are harder and harder to get. Generic PCVs for the Saturn are not compatible because a plastic piece that is attached to one end of the PCV is not included and trying to remove and replace it without damaging from an old PCV is extremely difficult. If you do have a Saturn and wish to keep running it for the next few years, I would recommend ordering and stockpiling a few of these PCVs from a GM dealership. All the best, H.D.H. [: {]
@@HANDYDANDYHUSBAND Yup. It hasn't had the TLC it deserves for about 15k (I don't put a lot of miles on it-it's just under 150k, so good timing.) It's so doggone easy to maintain, it's easy to be in just "oil change" mode after warranty. Time to give it the workover.
Hi Carbage Man, Thanks for sharing. I feel I have reached a kindred spirit of sorts with you. My own Saturn SL2 2000 has about 155K and while it does have some issues (oil consumption) and lower fuel efficiency it has continued work well. I really must hand it to GM--they really tried and succeeded in developing and creating a car that could compete with the long-term, easy to self-fix reliability of Civics. I know a lot of people (my own kids included) look down on the Saturn, but in all honesty, dent proof side panels, a relatively reliable engine (that takes abuse) and low maintenance costs make it a car that I don't want to get rid of. Not sure if there will be a resurgence of sorts of people wanting a dent proof cars as parking garages and parking spaces become tighter and tighter, but I really have been relieved more than once when someone threw open their door, hit the side of the Saturn and only left a faint scratch. I recall when I was rebuilding a 1967 Mustang that some manufacturers from that era actually used hard plastic to line the engine bay; thus, making these areas resistant to rust or dent damage--I really found that to be quite foresighted considering I had to replace the shock towers in the '67. Anyways, sorry to be so long winded. Keep your oldey but a goodey running and you'll be doing your part for the environment and saving a lot of money in the process--a virtue signalling act that actually rewards you. All the best, stay safe. H.D.H. [: { ].
You have got remarkable information here.
Thank you for your comment. Please let me know what other videos you would like to see.
I had a rough idle. Pulled the PCV valve and it was clogged so I changed it. Used CRC throttle cleaner, throttle body has a lot of buildup, and cleaned really well.... result, smooth idle and the pick up is a lot smoother. Thank you for the video. BTW, I have a 2001 Saturn SL1.
Hi John Copeland, thank you for your comment and for watching. I am happy I was able to help keep your 19 year old Saturn SL1 running smooth...Saving money and the environment--a win win. All the best, H.D.H. [: { ]
Thank you 😆
Thank you for watching; I appreciate the feedback. If you have any questions please let me know.
Thanks a bunch. Bought one of these for $500 with 220k miles and Im at 247k now. Best investment ever haha, saved so much on gas. Replaced basically every valve/sensor, this was the last one. She's running fantastic, better than my previous 2 cars. Love these things. They drive like a giant kart! Previous owner replaced the clutch at 180k so I should get a bit more out of her, when that goes she's scrap :')
Hi Bruce The Snoose, yes, you hit it on the head, these Saturns drive like a go-kart and I love that it does. I am really happy that you are getting more miles out of your Saturn and I hope that you get many more. You should buy a few spare PCV valves as they are getting in short supply (the plastic end of the PCV is very difficult to remove and replace onto the metal so OEM PCVs work best) and anything else you can get your hands on. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
The 1.9 liter engine in these older saturns is a good engine but they do tend to clog with carbon, What I do is clean the throttle body, EGR valve and check the PCV valve and TPS sensor all at the same time while I'm at it. Also another tip for these Saturns is if you ever replace the starter go ahead and replace the crankshaft sensor at the same time and save yourself trouble down the line, it's a cheap part anyways and it's right behind the starter. My crankshaft sensor went bad somewhere around 220k miles
Hi MissAmazanda, thanks for watching and letting me know your cleaning routine. Yes, I would endorse your manner of thoroughly cleaning the throttle body, EGR valve, PCV, TPS sensor at the time. I think I will adopt this as a best practice. The suggestion about replacing the CPS when replacing the starter is a great tip, as it is difficult to access without removing the starter. Thanks and all the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
Sounds like solid advice that I will follow. I was given a free 1999 Saturn SC2 with some issues so I am watching all of the UA-cam videos to learn all I can. The more I learn the more I am appreciating this car. I was planning on selling it but I might change my mind. The body is solid and has low mileage.
Excellent instruction video Bravo keep up the good work my friend thank you so much
Hi Corey, thank you for watching and providing such kind and uplifting words of encouragement. All the best to you. HDH [: { ].
hopefully you still have this little guy..
plugged pcv wont cause milky oil. You have a coolant leak, or you put antifreeze instead of oil in your valve cover. Head gasket probably. Throttle body cleaner is fine for spraying in throttle bodies, carbs, i guarantee after he cleaned everything all the sludge came back
Hi stuart walker, thanks for watching and providing your comments. Your experience is different than mine. I posted the video about a week after I performed the repair on Mar. 24, 2019. Since that time, I have periodically checked and the white/beige sludge has stopped forming. I believe about six months ago, the PCV valve was not sounding as 'tinny' as it normally does when I shook it, so I did clean it out with some cleaner and so far the milky sludge has not built up again. The coolant leak hypothesis, while possible, is incorrect/inapplicable in my specific situation as my coolant levels have remained level (I have not needed to refill the overfill container) and the coolant itself has maintained it color and consistency--this is even after the the hot summer months. In my experience with another vehicle, I have seen a leaky head gasket/cracked intake manifold can cause coolant discoloration and sludge buildup as you noted, but that does not mean one can exclude the possibility that the PCV valve could and can create the milky buildup. As an experiment, take some regular motor oil and mix it vigorously with an electric blender--it will turn milky right before your eyes. This also happens if you overfill the oil. Thanks, H.D.H. [: { ].
do you remember the size of that pcv hose that connects back to the intake? kinda looks like 3/8. i am looking to replace it and the part is discontinued. thinking of using fuel line to withstand the vacuum pressure
I know when it is cold out, it’s normal to see a small bit of that mayo like stuff on the oil cap. Especially if you don’t drive long enough to fully warm up the car.
Hi Agostino DiBella, thanks for watching and sending me your comment. Yes, while it is typical, it really does gum up the PCV valve and other entry/exit ports. If you are seeing it, it may be an idea to keep your vehicle idling a little bit longer before starting on your trip. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
where is the canister purge valve on the saturn sl2 HELP ME please...
Hi nicole westwood, thanks for watching and sending me your question. The canister purge valve on the Saturn SL2 can be a bit of a challenge to locate. It is underneath the Right Rear wheel (Driver's side) next to the gas fill tube (on the side that is in the direction of the front of the vehicle). You will have to remove the rear wheel and the plastic inner covers. You will see it if you look up towards the top of the wheel area. If you need further help or diagrams, please let me know. Hope this helps. All the best to you, H.D.H. [: { ].
@@HANDYDANDYHUSBAND thank you thank yooooou...
@@cherrismythe3000 Hi nicole westwood, your very welcome. Hope your repair is successful and satisfying...lets keep your Saturn running til its an antique...H.D.H.
@@HANDYDANDYHUSBAND do you have a diagram of it I can't find it
Hi nicole westwood. Earlier I gave you instructions on how to locate the VENT VALVE/SOLENOID. This is also known as a Canister close valve. This device controls the outside air in and out of the charcoal canister (the canister is where the EVAP system temporarily stores fuel vapors so they do not escape into the atmosphere). If this is faulty it will create a Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light. A malfunctioning Vent Valve will make it difficult for you to refuel. This is what I thought you meant by 'canister purge valve'. There is another device known as an Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) CANISTER PURGE SOLENOID VALVE. This device controls the fuel vapor entering into the engine when you start it. This too can create a Check Engine light, but it is typically accompanied by a rough idle and difficulty starting the engine especially after you refuel the vehicle. Which symptoms are you experiencing and which device are you specifically trying to locate. I don't want to mislead you as the two devices are located in very different locations (I want to guide you as well as I can). Also, if you can tell me, is your engine a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) or a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC). If you don't know, that is ok, it would just make the instructions I send to you a little more specific to your situation. Please let me know and I will try to help. All the best, H.D.H. [: { ]
Why clean a five dollar part?
Hi Carbage Man, thanks for watching and your comment. Yes, I agree it is better to replace the PCV valve; however, in some situations it may be better to clean a clogged valve until you are able to obtain the specific part. Saturn went bankrupt many years ago and parts are harder and harder to get. Generic PCVs for the Saturn are not compatible because a plastic piece that is attached to one end of the PCV is not included and trying to remove and replace it without damaging from an old PCV is extremely difficult. If you do have a Saturn and wish to keep running it for the next few years, I would recommend ordering and stockpiling a few of these PCVs from a GM dealership. All the best, H.D.H. [: {]
@@HANDYDANDYHUSBAND Thanks!
@@CarbageMan You are very Welcome. Keep that Saturn running and it will pay out dividends...all the best H.D.H.
@@HANDYDANDYHUSBAND Yup. It hasn't had the TLC it deserves for about 15k (I don't put a lot of miles on it-it's just under 150k, so good timing.) It's so doggone easy to maintain, it's easy to be in just "oil change" mode after warranty. Time to give it the workover.
Hi Carbage Man, Thanks for sharing. I feel I have reached a kindred spirit of sorts with you. My own Saturn SL2 2000 has about 155K and while it does have some issues (oil consumption) and lower fuel efficiency it has continued work well. I really must hand it to GM--they really tried and succeeded in developing and creating a car that could compete with the long-term, easy to self-fix reliability of Civics. I know a lot of people (my own kids included) look down on the Saturn, but in all honesty, dent proof side panels, a relatively reliable engine (that takes abuse) and low maintenance costs make it a car that I don't want to get rid of. Not sure if there will be a resurgence of sorts of people wanting a dent proof cars as parking garages and parking spaces become tighter and tighter, but I really have been relieved more than once when someone threw open their door, hit the side of the Saturn and only left a faint scratch. I recall when I was rebuilding a 1967 Mustang that some manufacturers from that era actually used hard plastic to line the engine bay; thus, making these areas resistant to rust or dent damage--I really found that to be quite foresighted considering I had to replace the shock towers in the '67. Anyways, sorry to be so long winded. Keep your oldey but a goodey running and you'll be doing your part for the environment and saving a lot of money in the process--a virtue signalling act that actually rewards you. All the best, stay safe. H.D.H. [: { ].