So, I found out today that the reason why my car isnt idling well is my EGI valve. After looking at it, its pathetic and broke off.

So the bolts that holds it in-- what size? 10 mm? 3/8 inch? I mean its in an odd place and i cannot seem to get a good hold on it. Any one with experience?

Frea.

 

I think you mean EGR valve. What are ya drivin'?

 

whoops, yea that. :P thats why i couldnt find it on advanced auto.

so uh.
89 s10 blazer 4.3

 

They should be 5/16-18 UNC bolts that likely have a reduced diameter head (3/8" hex head where a 5/16 bolt typically has a 1/2" hex head).

Using a 6 pt socket helps when trying to get a hold of bolts, but the space limitations can make the use of a socket a pain. I recently gained a new appreciation for my 6 pt combination wrenches that are designed to grip the flat on the fastener, not the points.

 

Well i got it out. it is 3/8. But how do i get it back in? I have some hard wires that run on the drivers side and the space on the passengers is tiny. Any tricks for that?

 

Hard wires? You mean fuel lines? Easiest way of changing the egr on the 4.3 is to remove the tbi (im gonna call it a carburetor for you lol).

 

not sure what you are asking.. you did get it out.

Would a magnet insert in a socket work?

 

Ok, so, on the top is the air filter, in the back below that is the valve. well, there are hard aluminum tubes that run back there too that obstructs the ability to mount the valve back in there.

I was wondering if there is a 'professional' shortcut that would make this easier?

i have to line up the gasket and the valve and then try to work the bolts in while holding it, its just a pain. Is there any tricks?

 

I'm too lazy to go out and look but here's two tricks:

1. when access is only from side, tie the gasket to the part with fine thread, leaving an inch or two tag end on threads. Once in place, use sodastraws or pieces of coathangers, or nylon ties {kind they use to tie cables and as handcuffs} through bolt holes to hold in place while you start the bolts. Once both bolts are started, cut the thread and pull it off. Probably not necessary but wth...

2. If only access from top, use the straws or whatever in bolt holes and drop gasket down them. Them drop/wiggle the part down them. Once it's in place, use extension and magneted socket holding the bolt to lower bolt into place.

hth

 

Those lines run into the back of the tbi unit under the air filter. You MIGHT beable to get the valve on if you disconnect the lines from the tbi,you can move them around a little then. Removing the tbi unit is EASY. just unplug 2 sensors,clips for the throttle linkages,fuel lines,and the few vacumm hoses and 3 13mm bolts and it pops off. While its off get some brake cleaner and clean the bottom side of it. I bet its nasty! when its off you can change the egr valve with 1 hand blindfolded!