Running to rich for my wallet, need some help!!!

[godbout.t]

For the past year or so, my 2004 4cyl 2.3L engine has been running might rich, to the point where there is a good amount of sute in the tail pipe. Also, its been running my wallet dry with gas consumption.

i did change the plugs not too long ago and they are firing perfectly , but im only getting an average of 22mpg, and i travel mostly highway so its sucking out a good amount.

any ideas or helpful suggestions would be great. thx

 

[fastpakr]

What speed are you running on the highway? Check engine light on? If not and you're already following the proper maintenance schedule with plugs, filters, etc, you don't have anything to worry about. I get about 22 around town taking it easy, or as much as 25-27 on the highway if I keep it at 65-70.

 

[godbout.t]

im doing about the same as you, my concern is the sute in the exhaust and tailpipe...kinda gets spit out every now and again

 

[ES894x4]

cleaned your maf? how old are the o2 sensors, any exhaust leaks?

 

[BlackBII]

How do you know it's running rich?

Have a Air/Fuel Ratio gauge?

Reading the spark plugs?

Blowing black smoke?

Every tailpipe will have black soot in it..

 

[godbout.t]

no leaks of any kind or smoke(unless i floor it then there is a single puff) but its more or less just a nuisance. spitting the black crap on my driveway...even hit the wifes foot once..that was actually funny!