Driving with a bum fuel injector

[JasonRedwood]

So my 1997 4wd, auto, 3.4 4Runner has a bum #4 fuel injector. I cant get to replacing it till Friday at the earliest.
Is there any reason besides bad MPG and a bad driving experience why I shouldn't drive it?

Thanks

 

[JediJesus]

When you say bum do you mean it isn't working at all or is just barely squirting? If its inducing a lean condition into the cylinder you can burn pistons/valves/rings fairly quickly depending on severity. Physically, if it just isn't working, you're forcing 5 cylinders to carry the load, putting it way out of balance, and stressing the bottom end. I would suggest not driving it if you can avoid it untill you can replace the injector.

 

[PhulesAU]

If it floods the cylinder, liquids Do Not compress.

 

[JasonRedwood]

It seems to be functioning intermittently. Drove no more than 20 miles. I used to wife's car to pick up parts today and replacing mañana. Hope all is well with the cylinder. Other also suggested that the cat could be ruined. Fingers crossed.

 

[JediJesus]

Pull the spark plug. Black and wet is rich and it was at least working, whitish and burnt electrode it was lean and running really hot. Very unlikely that it pumped enough fuel in to do any compression damage as Phules pointed out.

Also get a noid light or test light and check the harness to make sure there isn't a problem there.

eta: If its really wet spray some carb clean into the cylinder and immediately turn the engine over for a few seconds without the spark plug installed or the injector plugged in to pump everything out of there.