LDP Operation
During every engine cold start the LDP solenoid is energized by the EMS2000. Engine manifold vacuum enters the upper chamber of the LDP to lift up the spring loaded diaphragm.
As the diaphragm is lifted it draws in ambient air through the filter and into the lower chamber of the LDP through the one way valve.
The solenoid is then de-energized, spring pressure closes the vacuum port blocking the engine vacuum and simultaneously opens the vent port to the balance tube which releases the captive vacuum in the upper chamber.
This allows the compressed spring to push the diaphragm down, starting the "limited down stroke". The air that was drawn into the lower chamber of the LDP during the upstroke is forced out of the lower chamber and into the fuel tank/evaporative system.
This electrically controlled repetitive up/down stroke is cycled repeatedly building up a total pressure of approximately +25mb in the evaporative system. After sufficient pressure has built up (LDP and its cycling is calibrated to the vehicle), the leak diagnosis begins.
The upper chamber contains an integrated reed switch that produces a switched high/ low voltage signal that is monitored by the EMS2000. The switch is opened by the magnetic interruption of the metal rod connected to the diaphragm when in the diaphragm is in the top dead center position.
The repetitive up/down stroke is confirmation to the EMS2000 that the valve is functioning. The EMS2000 also monitors the length of time it takes for the reed switch to open, which is opposed by pressure under the diaphragm in the lower chamber. The LDP is still cycled, but at a frequency that depends upon the rate of pressure loss in the lower chamber. If the pumping frequency is below parameters, there is no leak present. If the pumping frequency is above parameters, this indicates sufficient pressure can not build up in the lower chamber and evaporative system, indicating a leak.
The chart represents the diagnostic leak testing time frame in seconds. When the ignition is switched on, the EMS performs a "static check" of circuit integrity to the LDP pump including the reed switch.
- On cold engine start up, the pump is rapidly activated for 27 seconds to pressurize the evaporative components.
- Once pressurized, the build up phase then continues from 27-38 seconds. The EMS2000 monitors the system through the reed switch to verify that pressure has stabilized.
- The measuring phase for leak diagnosis lasts from 38-63 seconds. The pump is activated but due to the pressure build up under the diaphragm, the pump moves slower. If the pump moves quickly, this indicates a lack of pressure or a leak.
- From 63-100 seconds the pump is deactivated, allowing full down stroke of the diaphragm and rod. At the extreme bottom of rod travel, the canister vent valve is pushed open relieving pressure and allowing normal purge operation when needed.