I bought the car and it looks like the previous owner removed the entire system? The only part left is the solenoid.

Is there a cheap way to put everything back? This gas smell is HORRIBLE.

Should I get everything from the dealer, or just find a donor car?

 

Try and find someone who has removed their system, and wants to sell the parts.

You have to determine exactly what is missing - lines from tank to canister (that would make it smell a lot), pressure regulator, canister, line from canister to drivers side of engine, metal u-tube from drivers side under TB to passenger side, EVAP vacuum detector, hose to the EVAP solenoid, hose from EVAP solenoid to throttle body, wiring?

What is actually missing? Work from the exploded views on Shoebox's page:

http://shbox.com/1/1996_evap.jpg
http://shbox.com/1/evap_system.jpg

 

So far I can tell everything under the hood with the exception of the solenoid is missing. I'll have to jump under it in a few and see if the canister is there. I just got it running again yesterday and letting it idle in the shop for 5min nearly killed my eyes.

 

Well, there are lines in the back, but I cant find the cannister?

 

It's been a while but I believe the canister is on the driver's rear quarter panel accessible from the bottom of the vehicle. I almost didn't pass smog in Kalifornia because the smog tech swore that I removed the system. He was un-racking the car when I was able to contact the Parts Department at my local Chevrolet Dealer and confirmed it is under a panel. I don't recall exactly where but it isn't in the open.

Next, confirm that it is disconnected or missing.

I should have snapped a picture of the location...

 

Well, looks like all I'll be needing are the lines and fittings up in the engine bay

Found the cannister and it is all there. Using the diagrams from Shobox's page I'll be rebuilding it all and hopefully be able to idle the car without feeling like I've been chopping a bag of onions.

 

Since you are re-routing the vacuum lines, I'd recommend Silicone Vacuum hoses versus normal rubber hoses. They stay softer longer and hold up to heat very well. Less chance of cracks or mysterious leaks.

 

You might just want to buy a new cannister, the foam filter can tear and allow the engine to suck charcoal through the vacuum line and into the engine. The biggest problem with this is the line will get clogged and is a PITA to unclog. I have been told that the charcoal in the engine is harmless.

 

Good idea.