Egr valve in 97 Maxima - replace

[signals]

How to access as easily as possible the EGR valve and tube to clean them? I have P0400 code. Is there any test without dismantling whole lot of hoses and other units to determine if the trouble is indeed with EGR valve and related connections? Please , please upload pictures to clarify the instructions.
Thanks a lot

[maxhopper]

Page EC-210 shows all the possibilities of the P0400 code. http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/maxima/1997/EC.pdf#page=212

As far as accessing the EGR valve. You'll need to remove the intake tubing by the throttle body, remove the Idle Air Control Valve and then you should be able to reach the bolts for the EGR valve. Make sure you have some PB Blaster to spay on the nuts. If you use a socket, I'd recommend a six point socket so the nut doesn't strip.