2001 Windstar 2001 EGR

[catvents]

I had a OBDII scan at a Advance auto part because a CEL on. They found a code PO401, EGR Flow insufficient. Engine idle correctly, but between 1200 to 1500 RPm engine hesitate ( I would say between first and second gear) If I press the gas ( Highter RPM) the hesitation desappear.
I have disconnected the vacuum line on the EGR ( and plug it ) and the engine run fine without hesitation. My Question here is, can I drive the van for a few days with the EGR disconnected without damaging something.
I will look to find if the EGR is defect but for now I have to use the van. I undestand that the CEL will stay on.

[12Ounce]

A few days shouldn't hurt, I would think. Make sure the engine coolant is in good shape.

The "EGR differential pressure flow sensors" (EGPF/DPFE sensors??) are known to have a high failure rate. They are hooked up to the EGR gas tube with rubber hoses .... check these hoses for blockages, or cracks, before buying the sensor.

[RickMN]

Also check for carbon buildup on the pintle of the EGR valve. You can clean this with carburetor cleaner, but do not allow any of the solvent to run back on the shaft towards the seal. Also, be very careful about running the engine with the EGR valve disconnected. That can result in excessively high combustion temps. If you hear pinging or knocking, reconnect the EGR.

[rodeo02]

Moisture in the body of the DPFE sensor or a cooked sensor is also fairly common. I haven't seen too many pintle clogging issues on the 1999+ winnys, but the EGR jets pressed into the lower intake manifold are known to plug with carbon deposits.

Joel

[catvents]

Originally Posted by 12Ounce

A few days shouldn't hurt, I would think. Make sure the engine coolant is in good shape.

The "EGR differential pressure flow sensors" (EGPF/DPFE sensors??) are known to have a high failure rate. They are hooked up to the EGR gas tube with rubber hoses .... check these hoses for blockages, or cracks, before buying the sensor.

Thank you all. I suspect the DPFE too. I have a 400 miles trip this weekend, I will connect the EGR ( the problem is shown at low speed) and see next monday if this could be the DPFE; mine has never been change. I will be back.

[pitteach]

I'm on my 4th DPFE in about 4 years on my 2000. Use the updated black plastic Motorcraft part. You can sometimes find them pretty cheap on ebay brand new. The aftemarket sensors I've used have not held up.

[catvents]

Originally Posted by 12Ounce

A few days shouldn't hurt, I would think. Make sure the engine coolant is in good shape.

The "EGR differential pressure flow sensors" (EGPF/DPFE sensors??) are known to have a high failure rate. They are hooked up to the EGR gas tube with rubber hoses .... check these hoses for blockages, or cracks, before buying the sensor.

In addition to the problem at low speed, the engine was missing over 60 mph
on load. I remove the DPFE and some water goes out of it. I have ordered and just replace the DPFE sensor and now everything is fine; thank you for the recommandations of both of you.