Posted previously a problem. 2005 grand caravan 3.8 running real rough. Replaced spark plugs and pack. The spark plugs looked completely black from soot. I finally got it started and it ran real rough still and was blowing black soot out of tailpipe ?????????????? I am thinking maybe a blown head.

 

Blown HG is not common on these engines, and the smoke would be white if it did happen. Did this just start suddenly, or has it been gradually getting worse? Any codes set? Did you check the air pathway (filter, box, TB)? If not that, maybe a map sensor/wiring/hose issue?

 

Definitely running rich. I would check the items mentioned above. Were all 6 plugs sooty?

 

I am sorry but I have not been able to get back to this forum for a few days. Sorry, I do not know what TB means. All spark plugs have the same amount of soot. I will be checking filter box tomorrow. Thank you for your reply.

 

TB is the Throttle Body, the place where air flow regulation takes place, and which is connected to the air filter box with the large rubber hose. Although it's common for the throttle body to get gunked up, it's unlikely that gunk is causing the performance issue in your van (unless it's really severe). I'd be looking for a more significant blockage, such as a rodent nest that's plugging up the air pathway. If not that, then something else is causing the air/fuel ratio to be way off. A MAP sensor issue can do that, along with some other things such as a bad O2 or throttle position sensor.

 

Well, I cleaned the TB and got it running better. On the front of the engine it is smoking from the connection from the exhaust manifold. It smells like antifreeze? Not good.

 

Any thoughts based on the location of the smoke? Thank you

 

Is replacing a new MAP Sensor and "hoping" worth a try or not recommended?

 

You said previously the van is running better after cleaning the TB. How much better? Are the plugs still showing soot? Any MPG improvement?

The coolant leak sounds like just an exhaust manifold gasket - very easy DIY.

 

It is not running that much better (still missing bad) and still blowing soot out of the exhaust.