Pontiac 17088036 Valve Assembly, Air Injection Control

The operate known as AIR system is implemented in all models that use the V6 engine and manual transaxles to lessen the hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide chucked out by the engine's exhaust by hitting an air injector into the exhaust ports of each of the cylinders. Using an air pump, it discharges air into the exhaust stream; an Electric Air Control (EAC) valve controlled by the Electronic Control Module (ECM) regulates the discharge of air in conformity with the temperature of the engine and the general driving conditions of the vehicle. During deceleration, all the air is directed to the atmosphere, so as to avoid back firing. A check valve to its exhaust stream is another feature of the system to avoid backflow return. There are an engine-driven air pump; an EAC valve; air hoses; a check valve; and from 2007 - electrically driven pump. Since it is a system, it may be somewhat difficult in identifying problems, however, the parts of the system can be examined. Inspections should being with hoses and wire checks whereby they are checked to ensure that they are in good condition. The pump can be tested by using the engine with normal temperature and using mouth to try to suck air from the pump hose. Check valve must permit air flow in only one direction, while vacuum at the air control valve must also be checked. In the case of component replacement, to adjust or replace pump drivebelt, bolts are to be loosened and the pump has to be removed. AIR pump pulley and filter is easily serviceable by compressing the drivebelt and removing the bolts on the pulley; however, when replacing the filter, one must avoid causing overhead damage to the pump housing. Most of the hoses and tubes must first be removed and then replaced with new ones made of the same type of material and with approximately the same dimensions as the old ones; the check valve can be replaced simply by disconnecting it from the assembly. The EAC valve is designed to be replaced by disconnecting the battery and subsequently, all hoses and connectors connected to the valve. The AIR pump can be removed by freeing the drivebelt and removing mounting bolts; AIR pump installation is to be done in reverse order with attention being paid on the tension of the drivebelt.

Checking the drive belt for cracks or frays and ensuring proper tension is essential. Additionally, hoses should be checked for flow when the engine is running, and the diverter valve should be tested for air discharge.

Leaks in hose connections can be detected using a soapy water solution.