how do i eliminate char can

[low3+3]

is it possible to eliminate the char. can on my 73. it has one line to the vac port under the carb( also teed to the pvc valve),one that appears to be a drain hose and one i think goes to the fuel tank. id like to do away with it if possible. any help would be appreciated

[DnStClr]

Low 3, You need vacuum for some things, but  you can probably remove the cannister. The pcv needs to be connected to the base of the carb and the line going to the fuel tank is to remove fumes from the tank, of course. But others have removed it too. The hose that seems like a drain might be the hookup for your heater/ ac. Does it work ok when you move the lever to different positions now?
I think it's pretty commonly accepted that removing the cannister doesn't improve performance. Is that what you're trying to do?

[VileZambonie]

the charcoal canister allows your fuel system to breathe. You should leave it in unless you are building a show truck. It is very functional and good for the environment. It does not inhibit any performance but if you must remove it you'll need to plug your tank vent which will cause excessive tank pressure. You'll need to cap off the bowl vent.

[eventhorizon66]

I also planned on eliminating my charcoal canister.  But its beneficial you say... Hmm.

Is there a quick and dirty way to hook it up without having miles of vacuum lines running all over the engine bay?  I don't mind the hook up to the gas tank or it sharing a vacuum hose with the PCV, but that's it, I draw the line there (I hate the way it makes my engine bay look).  Will it still work properly if I simply plug all the other vacuum nipples on the canister?  I count 6 lines coming out of the canister on my '85.  Also I am eliminating all other emmissions equip except cat so I wouldn't be able to hook it all back up anyways.

Any advice 

[eventhorizon66]

I know emissions equipment isn't the most entertaining topic, but I'm sure someone can help me out.

Basically, the short version of my question is: what is the minimum amount of hook up the charcoal canister needs to provide proper fuel tank ventilation?  Anyone?

[DnStClr]

You would need 2. One hose going from cannister to engine vacuum source and another hose going from cannister to fuel tank connection.

[eventhorizon66]

Thank you.

[DirtyLittleSecret]

Now the "doh" part...Carbon canisters will eventually loose the function of absorbing the vapours.  Thus rendering them worthless.  Seems to me they are only good for about 150k miles before needing replacement.  You can also go purchase a mini charcoal filter with a check vavle off your gas tank.