So, after failing my inspection, I'm pretty sure that I have narrowed down my 0302 trouble code to a faulty EGR solenoid valve... and yes I've been through all of the EGR threads.
I'm want to take it out and test it in my secret laboratory just to be sure that's the problem but I haven't quite figured out how to get at that one nut that secures the part to it's bracket. It's on the opposite side of the valve and I can't get a ratchet in there since the engine is in the way.
I have a second rate selection of tools and before I go out and start buying stuff I thought I would check and see how people have done it before.
So does anyone have any tips on what to use? Some type of universal swivel attachment for my ratchet?
Also, what size is that nut that's holding it on? My guess is 10-12mm.

Thanks.

JR

 

get an open ended wrench on there, and use a long screwdriver or spark plug extension socket to pry at it. this will break the nut loose, after which you can remove it with the wrench alone.

 

Okay, I'll give that a shot. do you happen to know the size of that nut?

 

To remove it, i used a small (about 4 - 5 inches) 10mm open end wrench. i felt around under the valve, and slipped the closed end of the wrench on the bolt. Once i had it on, i placed a spark plug socket extension down there, so that it was perpendicular to the open end wrench. remember, since you're working from above the bolt, you'll need to push clockwise to loosen it, and pull counter clockwise to tighten it.

once I had the extension in place, i held the wrench onto the bolt with one hand, and used my other hand to push / pry at the wrench with the spark plug extension. This broke the bolt free pretty easily. once it broke, i was able to loosen it the rest of the way with the wrench alone (takes a while, b/c due to the limited working space, you have to push, remove, reattach to the bolt, and repeat this process a bunch of times before you can loosen the bolt by hand.)

 

Before changing valve try cleaning it and resetting the code. Remove vacuum hoses and generously put carb cleaner in each of the 3 hoses and in the the solenoid itself.

 

Thanks for the removal tips.
I'm going to test this one out thoroughly before I replace it. I'm pretty sure it's not working but I'm going to power it up on my work bench and I'll also try cleaning it.
I know this isn't the most exciting thread topic but I appreciate the help.

 

Best way to do it is with a ratcheting wrench. Its 10mm. BUT you can just disconnect the bad one and leave it there and hook up the new one and let it dangle. Its a tight spot so dont feel bad.

 

aha... the perfect tool. I was not aware that these existed. I just went to Lowes for a 10mm open wrench and saw this. I've seen ratcheting wrenches before but the flex joint is just what I needed.
check it out:



It called a Flex Gearwrench. gearwrench is the brand.