running rich?

[ibanezxguy]

I believe im running rich... i have a nice black carbon build up in my exhaust pipe and im sure its coated my whole exhaust system valves and all. But is this a sign of running too rich?  I also get little puffs of smoke when i take off.  Im dont seem to be burning oil or anything like that.  But if i am running rich how do i make her run a little leaner?

[S13Grl]

*Belongs in Tech*

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If you believe you are running too rich, you should be able to notice the "richness" in your gas mileage. Figure out how many MPGs you get, but still smell around your engine bay and look around on your intake manifold. If it reeks of gasoline, you may be running rich.

Your problem might be:

a) a defective fuel pump
b) a mistake in the ECU
c) you may have a clogged air filter or a dirty air filter which would cause you to run richer (less air, same fuel) or your throttle valve might not be functioning properly...


What year is your car?

Any mods?