SES code P1441

I'm new to the forum here but enjoy reading the posts. I have a 97 Bravada that has the service engine soon light on and got the code from Advance Auto, it is code P1441 EVAP System Continuous Open Purge MIL REQUESTED. I've added some R134a refrigerant but it didn't clear the code and now isn't cooling like it's supposed to. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Fred

The EVAP system is completely seperate from the A/C system. If your A/C was working good before, you probably overfilled it. Hopefully no damage was done, you need to take it back to the proper level.

Approximately 20%of all hydrocarbon (HC)emissions from the automobile originate from evaporative sources.The Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)system is designed to store and dispose of fuel vapors normally created in the fuel system;thereby,preventing its escape to the atmosphere.The EVAP system delivers these vapors to the intake manifold to be burned with the normal air/fuel mixture.This fuel charge is added during periods of closed loop operation when the additional enrichment can be managed by the closed loop fuel control system. Improper operation of the EVAP system may cause rich driveability problems,as well as failure of the Two Speed Idle test or Enhanced I/M evaporative pressure or purge test.

The EVAP system is a fully closed system designed to maintain stable fuel tank pressures without allowing fuel vapors to escape to the atmosphere.Fuel vapor is normally created in the fuel tank as a result of evaporation.It is then transferred to the EVAP system charcoal canister when tank vapor pressures become excessive.When operating conditions can tolerate additional enrichment,these stored fuel vapors are purged into the intake manifold and added to the incoming air/fuel mixture.


Clear the code, if you don't have a scan tool to clear it with, disconnect the battery for 5 minutes to clear it. If the code comes back replace the purge solenoid. It should cost no more than $20.

Nice explaination Blazee.

Thanks so much for the explanation. I've replaced the gas cap with an OEM part from the dealer ($20) and cleared the code. If it comes back I will replace the purge solenoid. Is it something I can do myself? Where is it located?

Also my A/C wasn't that cool and my compressor was coming on and going off in quick bursts, so I charged the A/C and it worked ok for a few days but it's back to doing it again. Now I can't get it to take a charge. I don't think the refrigerant level is the problem but I'm not sure. It's blowing pretty cold air but it's also 50 degrees here today. The compressor comes on for just a few seconds before clicking off and then back on for a few secs. Any suggestions? I really love this truck but I need the air in the summer.

Sounds like your orifice tube is clogged with fine aluminum particles...all of them do over the years.
The system must be evacuated before starting orifice tube replacement. If your system is in good shape and full, it'll just be a coupla hours labor at a qualified shop.