EGR Removal

[white exec]

IIRC, vacuum is a constant source, ECU activates the electrovalve, which allows vac through to the EGR valve, which opens.

[dave_xsara]

Did I need to do anything additional to activate the valve?
As I said the post from Marc only stated to check at idle.


Also, is this egr a positive back pressure design?

[dave_xsara]

So I attacked the intake today with a tin of liqui moly.

On left is the result. Right, obviously , was prior to the cleaning. The bottom and side walls are cleaner, to not so much. Looks like more of a prevention rather than cure product.
The revs rises and falls as you spray, but it was a straightforward process, but is much easier if you had someone spraying and another guiding the nozzle.
I was a bit wary of the wand getting stuck into an inlet as it is flexible and arcs as it is fed in, but there was no actual issue. It done a job, but as I had thought the intake would need to come off for a full clean and I'm not going to the hassle of getting someone to help me stripping off all the pipe work to clean it fully.
I ended up attaching the wand to a bit of rod wire in order to elevate the wand in the intake to attempt to clean the top of the intake, but it needs some scrubbing to fully clean.

Anyhow, I'm doing no more.

[myglaren]

Any noticeable improvement?

[dave_xsara]

Sorry, I forgot the most important part!
Not really from the initial clean documented on previous page. There was no step change in engine performance.
Thinking about how engine makers are always trying to get a smooth flow of air into the cylinder I was expecting something noticeable.

Not sure why the initial clean made so much difference as it was mainly the egr pipework which should have no effect when driving as it will be inactive.

[Huskyxantia]

I've always cleaned mine mid summer and soak everything 24 hrs depending on free time even longer, as for blanking egr valves off my mot tester would fail something if its ment to be there
Good work on tackling a awkward job

[dave_xsara]

It was a well worthwhile job. Removing the EGR and its pipework whilst awkward is not beyond any competent home mechanic - just make sure you have the replacement gaskets before you start. It give a good improvement.
I would like to have fully cleaned the intake but to remove it seems to require the removal of the exhaust manifold and I don't want to break a stud, so decided to clean in situ.

Maybe I'll try a carbon clean next time.