I got the vacuum gauge and checked the vacuum into the Egr. it is steady at 17 psi. after some research I realized that the tube that is 'exhausting' the hot gas is the "back pressure" line. I have tried to see what would cause the back pressure line to build such pressure and the only thing I can think of is if the catalic converter is plugged. I hooked the pressure gauge to the back pressure line and at normal temp and 2k rpm I noticed a very slow rise in exhaust pressure. very slow.
Am I on the right track, or just barking up the wrong tree.
BTW I checked the tubes and gaskets and all were in good shape.