Okay, egr cleaning....

[LongBeachQ45]

So my engine threw out a 32 code, I read some posts about cleaning it with carb cleaner, electronic parts cleaner, and for some reason oven cleaner (EASY OFF? WTF!!!)..... My question is which works best (and doesn't damage it) and is there a gasket to replace after I remove it?

[66mgb]

DO NOT USE EASY OFF! That's to clean the plenum (intake manifold) only!

I'm not sure what the 32 code is (maybe tech can help), but I'm sure that you're entire intake system needs cleaned at this point.

CRC makes a good MAF cleaner. You can use electronics cleaner also.

If there's one thing to know about these Q's - you have to be anal about cleaning the entire car. There is no substitute for cleaning and replacing fluids per the Infiniti p/m schedule.

[maxnix]

If there's one thing to know about these Q's - you have to be anal about cleaning the entire car. There is no substitute for cleaning and replacing fluids per the Infiniti p/m schedule.

Or better yet, the Q45tech/NICO preventative maintenance schedule.

[zinkie13]

Has anyone ever blocked off their EGR? It seems to be a pretty common and inexpensive mod for many other types of cars.

[Q451990]

Given the Q's tendancy to have spark knock - I wouldn't recommend it...

Heath

[zinkie13]

What causes spark knock? Remember this is coming from someone (myself) whom is somewhat uneducated on the workings of an engine. It just seems to me like recirculating exhaust gas could not possibly make a car run better, maybe less emitions but not run better. Maybe this would be a better thing to try on the y33, since the VH41 doesn't have any common engine problems.

[Q45tech]

EGR consist of Nitrogen and Cabon Dioxide [99% of oxygen has been burned].

10% egr reduces the normal 22% oxygen in air to 20% in the air charge this lowers combustion temperature by 10%, this lowers BMEP by 10% and this lowers the octane requirement just like a 10% reduction in compression ratio.

The egr enters the plenum under a slight pressure vs the cruise air being restricted by the throttle body plate [flows under the almost closed plate]...thus it reduces the inefficient pumping losses by 2-3%. This improves cruise mpg by the same 2-3%....sometimes more.

Remember egr is only operating from 1500-3000 rpm [45-90 mph steady speed] at very low throttle openings............the moment you start to accelerate it is turned off as it is off at idle and deceleration and even when the engine is still warming up at cruise.

Solves most Nox and improves cruise mpg..........no real down side in any situation..............why every engine has had egr for 30 years.

Tip in knock is the result of the ecu trying to optimize MPG at cruise and the sudden opening of throttle and the runner air speed dropping causing a lean condition until the KS reduce advance.

Modern drive by wire throttle bodies open more slowly to minimize tip in problems........give systems TIME to react and optimize.

A gasoline internal combustion engine runs most efficiently when the timing is advanced to the limit where detonation (knocking) begins. Always just on the very edge of audible knock.............so very easy to go over the cliff.

[yodawill2000]

Excellent description.

As usual.

[LongBeachQ45]

Awesome info, but what about the gasket? 32 code is EGR, I am assuming I need to clean it as they rarely go bad.

[LongBeachQ45]

And what is the NICO maintenance schedule?

[Q45tech]

If you have a septic tank, RV, or even sewer connection you should have some experience with cleaning or hire a surrogate [plumber or automotive technican].

The only major difference is the diameter of the pipes or channels........colors are similiar the smell is not.

Since egr is only active at cruise the more cruise the more dirt. Normally the system doesn't plug up in 70k or 6 years...........seems like a good preventative interval to me. Mine got cleaned the first time at 120k, then again 100k later probably about time again at 308k

[maxnix]

And what is the NICO maintenance schedule?

Outlined by Q45tech in his posts. Basically, it is a fix it before it breaks philosophy. Keep everything in specification and fluids and filters as fresh as possible. Intervals depend on time, use, mileage and member's standards.

[LongBeachQ45]

So is there a replacable gasket? I tried everything infiniti and couldn't find one.

[goody90q45]

Yes. The high temp EGR gasket should be replaced as it may come apart when you remove the EGR assembly. It was less than $5 from the dealership. You could probably get an equivalent from an auto parts store. In this case, ordering from Joe will probably cost you more in shipping than you save with his discount.

[elwesso]

I dont see any problem with using EASY OFF or something like that to clean the EGR... If its completely blocked, you may have to drill into the carbon (yes I said drill!)

[maxnix]

So is there a replacable gasket? I tried everything infiniti and couldn't find one.

Did you call? I guarantee there is a gasket and you do have to replace it.

[LongBeachQ45]

Did you call? I guarantee there is a gasket and you do have to replace it.

I called my local dealer, and the dumbass parts person they connected me to knew less about the car then I do. Anyways, it is a 2-3 day wait, so in the meantime, when I replace it do I use standard gasket sealer or is it a gasket that doesn't need sealant (which it seems like it would be considering there is no fluid passing through this part).

[maxnix]

I called my local dealer, and the dumbass parts person they connected me to knew less about the car then I do. Anyways, it is a 2-3 day wait, .....

There are problems with being a well read NICO member.

Joe can get it to you in less time for less money.