virgilr

Fourth hand 96 accord lx, 2.2l V-Tec. Ok, I pulled and cleaned the egr ports, because it was hesitating a bit in the 1700-2000 rpm range and only getting about 20 mpg. I used the guide on this site- and it was completely plugged, I mean terrible carbon. So I cleaned it all up, put it back together (put a bit of silicon on the injector O-rings) and fired it her up. No leaks. All seems good.

Then, as the idle kicks down... it just about stalls out, and I can hear a hissing around the EGR valve. I pulled the valve and cleaned all the carbon out of the needle on the bottom- it seems to be holding vacuum when I suck on the line and it pulls up the pin. But, when I disconnect the vacuum line, it idles fine, and the hissing air sound goes away.

Could this be a bad EGR valve? I've been driving it with it disconnected with no problems. I didn't get a CEL for the EGR lifter though- maybe it's giving an incorrect voltage.

Anyways, she's old- 175 k, auto tranny, but running very well. I just don't want to dump money into an EGR valve if the problem is elsewhere.

Is this common in older engines after cleaning the EGR ports, with an old valve?

Thanks to any who reply!

Honda Tool

If you hear hissing with vacuum hose connected it sounds like a vacuum leak at or after the EGR. Just plug the hose if you have to drive it until you figure out what is going on.

Honda_Accord

it can't be to common, i just did this on a 97 with about the same milage as you and mine idles great and drives great, after the cleaning

virgilr

now this is interesting- when I took of the valve, there wasn't a gasket! I'm sure of it- I imagine that doesn't help!

BTW- what is after the EGR valve in terms of vaccum? I didn't see any other lines branching from there..

Honda Tool

I guess i didn't word that very good. I would say you found your problem. $2.00 fix at most.

virgilr

Hoping so- the only thing was, that when I was cleaning the underside of the valve, there was what looked like a small conical plastic "seat" that moved up and down (like a seal)- this was rather worn and pitted. I wish I'd taken a shot with it off- have to take the car for the commute this morning, but shouldn't there be a larger plastic ring or rubber seal on the end, not this little conical seat?

Honda Tool

Just unplug the vacuum hose, and plug it with a small bolt. Check engine light will come on, but car will run fine. (Temporary)

I would try a gasket first, and if you still hear noise replace the EGR.