If two of the injectors have bad spray patterns it is time to replace
the set. Beck Arnley sells rebuilt injectors through a FLAPS. Cost is
~$50 each. At least replace the two bad ones but keep in mind that any
imbalance will cause idle problems.

Next step is to make sure the temp 2 sensor and O2 sensors are working.
If the plugs are fouled with carbon, replace them. The carbon is a short
and can cause a weak spark. They may clean up after the engine is
running right,  but for a few dollars, why fight it.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Ryan Dawson
Sent: Tuesday, May 25, 2004 10:26 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Gas Mileage Problem...again

Further analysis of the gas mileage situation yielded some new clues as
to the
source of the problem.  First off, the oil does seem diluted and less
viscous,
although not having an overpowering fuel smell.  Second, the spark plugs
are
black!  Third, two of the fuel injectors are dumping fuel instead of
spraying
fuel.  As well, the injectors are dirty!  And the air filter is a piece
of
crap.  The date on it is 1996, so it definately needs to be changed!

So, my questions to everyone are:
1.  Do I clean the injectors by running something through the fuel
system?  If
so, what additive to my fuel will do the trick?  If not, what can I use
to
clean them if I have to remove them?

2.  The plugs are black, but the spacing seems to be fine between and
they are
fairly new.  Should I replace these as well?

3.  Should I change the oil before or after cleaning the fuel injectors?
I was
going to change it anyways with Mobil 1 20W50.

4.  Is there anything else that I should be thinking of?

I checked the fuel system for leaks, and there are none that I can see.
It
seems that there is a lot of unburnt fuel, and excessive amounts of fuel
being
dumped into the cylinders.  If anyone has any more ideas, I would
greatly
appreciate your insight.

Thanks again to everyone,
Ryan