Fuel Evaporative Control System-AKA Charcoal Canister, More information than anyone wants to know Options

[JeffBowlsby]

So how does this system work? Review these first two graphics from the factory repair manual to find out.

(PS I wonder why the forced induction guys dont't use the air from the fan housing to spin their turbos? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif))

[Pat Garvey]

Jeff, you know you had to open a "can 'o worms" here.

What about the older cars? I was told by the local PD (dealer) in about '75/76 that the canister was self healing, in that it would clear itself & rejuvinate itself over time - like I believed that!

Charcoal has limited capabilities of absorbing hydrocarbons. Yes, it works fine for a few yeas of normal driving, but then it becomes, in the case of these pellets. over absorbed.. I suppose after that some " parked time" the pellets could clear of hydrocarbons, but would then absorb ambient moisture. Bad? Not certain, but I think so. And, when that moisture is released to the chamber & tank, corroson might occur.

Now, I seem to remember that there was a maintenance bulletin that recommended changing the canister on the early cars at around 50K. By that time (one my 914) they were unavailable.

So, given that my 914 is 37 years old, and isn't required to have emission testing in PA, would I be better off bypassing the canister? Is it of any value at this point?
Pat