91 camry v6 horrible fuel comsumption

[primal]

ok guys, my 91 camry v6 runs smooth its got fresh plugs, wires, oil, springs brakes etc. the thing runs great but i litrally can watch the gas gauge go to empty. Was the 2.5 v6 that fuel inefficient? maybe something is wrong , the smell of the exhaust is very present always so it must be running rich somehow. can i get some suggustion as to what to check for in order to fix this gas guzzling. i coulda got a v8 for that. Thanks

[white90dx]

We'll need some actual numbers to tell you if you are off on the gas consumption.

Fill up the tank, and divide the miles driven by the gallons on the fill up. You should be getting 250+ miles a tank (full to first low fuel warning) for city driving and around 300 or a more on the highway if you drive reasonable with the V6.

The V6 was never great on gas, but you should at least be able to get in the mid 20's if everything is running right. If you haven't done it yet, replace your oxygen sensor(s) and run some fuel injector cleaner.

-Charlie

[TBayToyotaBoy]

If you can, check the fuel filter. How long ago was it last changed? Was it ever replaced? I was getting around 18mpg with my V6 (which is a 5-speed, no less) and a new fuel filter brought it back up to 25mpg city driving. MAN, was that filter element filthy.

Make sure your timing is within spec; clean-out the throttle body/ intake plenum with tb cleaner or seafoam; check the distributor rotor for wear & tear; and lastly, check that you don't have a sticky wheel bearing. They're only good to about 200,000km or 125,000 miles. Jack each corner up and spin the wheel...if it doesn't spin freely, check the bearing. Also check for a sticking caliper--front OR rear.

You name it, I've had to fix it...there are SO many things that can cause your fuel mileage to crap-out on the V6's.

[primal]

thanks guys, i will try your suggestion.

[DressUpYourPet]

maybe your exhaust system is plugged too, or the muffler or catalytic convertor has broken baffles, i would check that as you mention exhaust smell

[primal]

Originally Posted by DressUpYourPet

maybe your exhaust system is plugged too, or the muffler or catalytic convertor has broken baffles, i would check that as you mention exhaust smell

exhaust has a visible and audible leak, i will deal with it today.

Guys, i need dealer spark plugs, wires and valve cover gasket for the camry. Does anybody have part numbers/prices?.

Also, there is a leak under the car. I thought it was the rack and pinion but it seems to be dripping onto the rack. i took a hanger and pressed the hose and it got really soggy. I reckon its a power steering hose under the car. what is that hose called and can i get a part number/price? Thanks in advance.

[fredk]

dealer plugs?

[primal]

Originally Posted by fredk

dealer plugs?

I meant spark plugs from the dealer or do we use better ones.

[Mike Gerber]

You can get the same spark plugs at a local auto parts store cheaper than the dealer. Just use the proper Denso or NGK spark plugs. Avoid Bosch plugs. If you still have the owner's manual, it should list the proper spark plugs for your car. You also may be able to find the proper NGK or Denso wires at an aftermarket store. Again, stick with Denso or NGK. Stay away from the cheap aftermarket plug wires; they rarely last more than a year. The valve cover gasket is something I would get at the dealer. They tend to be better IMHO, and replacing one on a V6 is not a job I would want to do over again.

The dealer should also be able to tell you which is the proper power steering hose from their computer's schematic. You should be able to show them which hose is needed on their screen. Go to the parts person and ask for some help.

Mike

[primal]

How much are the v6 injectors? Do we normally have idle issues with worn injectors? When warm my idle bobs up and down usually cutting the motor off. Also when warm, the revs climb to 25000rpm sometimes without me touching the throttle. Any suggestions/remedies? Thanks

[fredk]

Check the big intake tube for cracks or being loose, a vacuum hose off, and cleaN the intake butterfly with carb cleaner