Would appreciate any tips and pointers ref taking the valve off and cleaning it (ideally to avoid the cost of a new one if at all possible).

Removal seems straightforward enough, awkward access to bottom fixing by the look and new gaskets needed, but are the hose clips reusable? Will clean off the car so none of the crud gets at the intake system.

How long to strip off the car and refit in peoples experience (the cleaning is the longest bit I guess)?

I read on the MkIV golf forum that someone boiled theirs in a strong detergent :eek: but it came up sparkling!! Guess the temperature's not an issue but what about protecting any delicate or water sensitive components?

Hope to get some words of wisdom from the Briskodian collective database:)

Edited 10 October, 200916 yr by Greybeard

removal is straight forward once of use a nylon toothbrush and some carb cleaner and give it a good scrub you cant realy hurt anything, Give yourself a good hour, 10 mins to remove and a good 30 mins to clean then just refit. once fitted theres no setting to do. job done. good luck and dont worry its so easy. Regards Phil.

Wear old clothes and gloves!

Exhaust connections are straightforward, but the EGR body can be awkward.

The fastener at the back can be a pig, but loosen a bit, remove the other two; squirt in lots of WD40 and the EGR will twist giving you better access. The gaskets are really rubber rings and inset so, with lubrication and care there is no need to replace.

Whilst it's off and pipes open you could clean the intercooler (need to disconnect the bit after to drain it of course).

Have fun.

10 mins to remove!! you must have lady fingers (or I have shovel paws)

Was considering hiring a dwarf to finish this job.

And it is so satisfying to see all the gunk that comes out.

Anyone know what the vaccuum 'pressure' reading should be in the line that operates the EGR diaphragm?

Cleaning didn't work ultimately, but was worth a try. Bought and fitted new valve last weekend, looks like all sorted now.