EGR question

[jiangtao]

I bought an EGR temp switch for my 86 today and when I went to change it I noticed that the threads in the EGR tube were stripped. I ordered a new tube, but I won't have time to replace it tomorrow. The temp switch is loose and sitting in the tube. Can I get by driving about 40 miles to the dealer near my office tomorrow? Can I re-use the heat shield? Thanks, this has turned into a major PITA for me.

 

[Renes86]

Hi, yes you can drive it. Mine was striped also but I bought a new switch and it screwed right back in with no problems. You will get a "check engine soon" light but as soon as you put the new one in, it will reset itself. Yes it is a pain to work on. I had to have my wife help me with the plug in part of the job. It's behind the distributor and down low. Very hard to get to.
I did not replace the tube. Just cleaned out the threads at the tube and carefully screwed the new switch in. Keep in mind that there is no hole into the tube at this point. Just a fitting welded to the tube. It's just sensing tempture. You should be ok for the drive. We drove ours for a week or so until I got the new part. Unless the heat shield is torn I would believe you could reuse it. Good luck!!!

 

[jiangtao]

Thanks, I am at ease now. What exact role does that switch play in the EGR? I know the later L-98s didn't have them.

 

[Renes86]

Not sure. Actually, I have no clue. Probably sends temps back to the computer for one reason or another. I know, not much help. LOL!!!

I was just down your way last week for the Hot Rod Power Tour. It stopped in Birmingham at the race course there. Nice place.

Jim

 

[jiangtao]

Yeah, it's pretty nice down there. I am about 50 miles away from B'Ham. The roads are crap if you have a Z51 though!!!! The reason I had to get a new tube is that, I guess, the threads are stripped in the part that is welded on. The switch won't come out at all! Now I probably can expect the Chevy dealer to tell me that it's a 3 hour job to replace the tube! I am stuck on this one because I have a 7 day straight work schedule ahead of me! I might just drive it until I get some time off if the dealer quotes me a riduculous ammount.

 

[WhalePirot]

if the dealer quotes me a riduculous ammount.

Whaddya mean, IF?

 

[Renes86]

I had the same problem. I just couldn't get it out. Some how I did though. The threads in the tube looked striped but with a pipe tap it came out clean and the new one went in snug. Since you bought the new tube and switch, I'd wait until you can get to it. The dealer will sock you with a very high price I'm sure. It only takes about an hour to replace it all. Make sure you have someone around with small hands. That plug for the switch is in a bad spot but a second set of hands helps. In anyway, good luck and have fun with the vette.


Jim