04 xTerra P0447 and P1446

[spasticnapjerk]

Good afternoon everyone. I'm wondering if a mechanic can help me solve a problem.

I'm having problems filling the tank, and I smell fuel afterwards. Both of these codes indicate the Vent Control Valve.

We checked the filler vent tube, and the rest of the tubes around the gas tank. We removed the vent control valve and it actuated when voltage was applied. Everything seemed to check out, but I still can't fill with gas.

With that information, would someone be able to tell me if a new vent control valve will fix the problem? Or would I need to replace the canister (we didn't actually check this part)? I live in Honduras where there are no smog checks, and this car will never be in the US again...is there a way to remove the entire evap system, while preserving gas mileage and not throwing codes? Nissan parts here are even more expensive than in the states...even salvage parts are high, and not guaranteed.

Any help is very much appreciated!

Drew Shuller
Comayagua, Honduras
2004 xTerra 4x4, auto, 3.1 v6

[sx moneypit]

You need to check and see if you are getting power to the valve with the key on.
Also check the evap canister and make sure it isn't saturated with water.
The canister shouldn't weigh more than 4lbs with the vent solenoid attached.

-Ben

[spasticnapjerk]

Thanks Ben, I'll do that. We didn't think about checking wether or not the valve was getting voltage. What do I do if the canister is saturated with water? Pour the water out? Replace it? Could I remove it completely and replace it with a short lenth of tubing, retaining the valve?

Drew

[sx moneypit]

Nissan says to replace the canister. I would drain the water out and maybe blow it out lightly with some compressed air.