Tips to Clean the EGR System of Your Ford Powerstroke

Vehicles are arguably one of the greatest inventions and technological advances we have. They offer ease of transportation, convenience, and a comfort ride. Whether you are making a quick trip to the grocery store or travelling across country with a trailer, you can rely on your vehicle to make the trip as quick and efficient as possible.

Under your vehicle’s hood is a delicate series of systems that need to work together in order for your vehicle to run correctly. Over time and with advancements, manufacturers have become more aware of the effects these systems have on each other and how one minor change can create a chain reaction that leads to a faulty vehicle. One of the advancements that helps keep your vehicle running smoothly is the exhaust gas recirculation system .

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation system, also known as the EGR system , is just one of many vehicle emission control systems that works to help reduce the amount of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases .

Nitrogen oxides are usually formed in the combustion process in the engine cylinders . The higher the temperature during this process, the more nitrogen oxides are created. This can be harmful to the engine. This is where the EGR system comes into play.

The EGR system reduces the combustion temperature by redirecting a small amount of the exhaust gas back into the intake manifold , or the part that supplies the fuel and air mixture to the cylinders.

Due to the importance of this system, maintenance is necessary. Here are a few ways to clean the EGR system and some signs your Ford Powerstroke’s EGR is in need of cleaning.

As with most things vehicle related, there are warning signs that let you know your EGR system needs to be cleaned. The easiest way to tell if there is an issue with your EGR system is that the check engine light will be on.

Besides the check engine light , you will notice unusual noises like knocking or tapping coming from the engine , rough idling , the smell of gas while the engine is running, among other signs.

When you clean the EGR system, you are cleaning the valve. Over time, this valve can experience a build up of carbon deposits which can cause blockages in the system or cause the valve to get stuck open or closed .

Locate the valve by the top of the engine near the throttle body or air intake . Look at the outside for damage such as a cracked hose or disrupted electrical connections. The valve is small and held into place by two or four bolts. Remove the bolts and separate the valve from the gasket . Once this is done, you’ll see black, hard carbon deposits. Spray carburetor cleaner on the deposits and use some type of wire brush to clean and scrape out deposits. Continue this process until you can’t see any more deposits.

Visit us at Diesel Pickup Pros if you suspect your EGR system is in need of a check up. DIY cleaning offers short term relief to the issue, but we can fix the problem as a long-term solution.

Whether you live in Floyds Knobs , Georgetown , Jeffersonville , New Albany, IN or Louisville KY , we are happy to inspect your Ford Powerstroke and provide all the services and repairs your EGR system might need.

We offer a 24 month/24,000 mile warranty on all our parts and repairs and use all factory-grade tools and equipment . We believe in honesty and quality, and when you bring your truck into our shop, we guarantee both with every job we do on your truck. Call us today to speak to a technician and set up an appointment.

* Ford F-150 image credit goes to: DarthArt.

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