4 Piston Rod Seal X
5 Dowel Pin X
6 Spring X
7 Piston Assy X
8 Piston Seal X
9 Umbrella Valve X X
10 O-Ring X
11 Seal Plate X
12 Duckbill Valve X
13 O-Ring X
14 Screw X
15 Vac/Press Knob X
16 Lever X
17 Schrader Valve X X
18 E-Clip X
19 O-Ring X
20 Outlet Port X
21 Lever Pin X
22 O-Ring X
23 Vac/Press Valve X
24 Retaining Clip X
25 Gauge X
26 O-Ring X
27 Spring Washer X
7
9
10
14
PUMP SERVICE KITS
6
8
824461 – Tube Connectors
MVA6913 – Bleed Adapter Kit
MVA6004 – Vacuum Caps
MVA6912 – Diagnostic Adapter Kit
MVA6915 – Replacement Case
822391 –
Tubing (2 pieces)
3
823396 – Bottle Adapters
823398 –
Rell Plates
824645 –
Reservoir Kit
the pump
The vacuum/pressure pump is an extremely versatile service tool that can be used to test a variety
of automotive systems and perform a number of
useful tasks. Though the pump has obvious uses for
testing various vacuum motors, control valves and
vacuum sources, its applications don’t end there.
Almost any part or system that requires proper
sealing, pressure or vacuum to operate can be
tested with the vacuum pump. The pump and its
accessories also transfer fluids, help to bleed brakes
and aid in other tasks. The pump also meets diagnostic tool requirements when such tools are speci-
ed for some state vehicle inspection programs.
This section will describe the pump, give specica-
tions, tell how to use the pump and provide some
service tips to help you keep your pump in tip
top-shape.
DESCRIPTION
The hand-held vacuum/pressure pump is simple,
accurate, easy to use, and has many applications.
It consists of a pump body, moveable handle, com-
pound vacuum/pressure gauge, vacuum/pressure
converter switch, and connection tting. The pump
is easily held in your hand, and when the handle is
squeezed, either vacuum or pressure is produced
at the front tting. If the front tting of the pump
is connected to a closed container or system, the
gauge will show the vacuum or pressure level.
Selecting whether to have the pump produce either
vacuum or pressure at the connection tting is as
simple as turning the knob located on the front
left side of the pump. The vacuum/pressure valve
housing is marked with “Pressure” and “Vacuum”.
Rotate the knob such that the arrow aligns with
the desired output. Depending on the position of
the knob, either vacuum or pressure is produced
by squeezing the pump handle. The return of the
handle has no effect on the output.
VACUUM RELEASE
The vacuum or pressure can be released by lifting
up on the Release Lever. This action allows air to
enter the system, thus relieving the vacuum/pressure. Vacuum/pressure will also be released when
the hose is detached from the front tting.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Vacuum Approx. 25” Hg
@ Sea Level: (85 kPa)
Stroke Volume: 1 cu. in. (16cc)
Maximum Pressure: 30 psi (205 kPa)
Gauge Accuracy:
3% between 0% and 25% of span
2% between 25% and 75% of span
3% between 75% and 100% of span
USING THE PUMP
The pump is simple to use. In most cases, it’s attached directly to a component, used in place of a
vacuum line or connected into a vacuum circuit with
a tee connector. The pump can be operated as a test
instrument in two ways:
1) When vacuum or pressure is desired for a test,
the converter switch is turned to the desired output,
and the movable handle of the pump is simply
squeezed with your hand, as in clenching your st.
Continue strokes until desired vacuum or pressure is
indicated on the gauge.
2) The pump can be connected into a vacuum
or pressure circuit and used to measure existing
amounts of vacuum or pressure, just as any gauge
would be used. When used this way, do not pump
the handle, or incorrect readings may result.
PROPER CARE
Your pump is a sturdily built, precision test
instrument. Do handle it carefully! Don’t drop or
handle roughly as the gauge accuracy may be
affected. Never exceed the rated pressure of the
gauge, as this can cause loss of accuracy and
permanent damage. Care for your pump and it will
give you years of trouble-free service.
LUBRICATION
The factory-installed lubricant is silicone oil and
should provide very long service. If you nd it
necessary to lubricate your pump, use silicone oil.
If unavailable, you may use DOT 5 (not DOT 3)
silicone-based brake fluid or a salad vegetable oil.
Do not use petroleum based uids or spray
lubricants (WD-40, motor oil, etc.), as these will
damage the pump.
4
the automotive vacuum system
This manual deals with vacuum and pressure, how
it is used in various automotive systems and how
the vacuum pump can be used to test and diagnose
these systems. This section discusses what vacuum
is, how it is measured, where it comes from on an
automobile, the system for distributing and using
vacuum, and some troubleshooting basics.
WHAT IS VACUUM?
Put simply, vacuum is empty space, and may exist
as either a total or partial vacuum. Vacuum does
not, of itself, create power. Rather, power for
vacuum devices depends on the presence of
atmospheric pressure. The atmosphere exerts a
pressure of 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi) on
everything at sea level. If a portion of the air is
removed from one side of a diaphragm (partial
vacuum), the atmospheric pressure will exert a
force on the diaphragm. The force is equal to the
pressure difference times the diaphragm area
(FIGURE 1). Generally, the less air (greater
vacuum) in a given space, the more the atmosphere
tries to get in and the more force is created.
HOW IS VACUUM MEASURED?
In the United States, vacuum is commonly measured
in inches of Mercury (“ Hg). It may also be
measured in centimeters of Mercury (cm Hg) and
kiloPascals (kPa). Atmospheric pressure will sup-
port a column of Mercury in a manometer gauge
about 30 inches high or about 76 cm high. This is
the barometric pressure in “ Hg which varies as the
weather changes. Vacuum readings in “ Hg are
really negative pressure readings. For example,
30” Hg vacuum would be a complete vacuum. Half
of a complete vacuum would be 15” Hg. A gasoline
engine at idle usually pulls about 16-22” Hg
vacuum. On deceleration, because the throttle is
closed, the vacuum will increase. The pump will pull
about 25” Hg as indicated on its vacuum gauge
which is calibrated in both “ Hg and kPa.
cylinder is increased. Air cannot rush through the
intake system fast enough to totally ll the space
created when the piston moves down (FIGURE 2).
This is the most common automotive vacuum
supply source.
GASOLINE VS. DIESEL VACUUM
Because a diesel engine does not produce as much
vacuum as a gasoline engine, a mechanical vacuum
pump must be employed to operate vacuum
devices. The pump is useful in testing devices
on both types of engines.
Piston area 10 sq. in.
14.7 PSI
10.7 PSI
40 Pounds
14.7 - 10.7 = 4 PSI
FIGURE 1:
VACUUM VS. ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE
Intake Stroke
Vacuum Port
WHY ENGINES CREATE VACUUM
Vacuum is created when air is withdrawn from
a given volume, or a sealed volume is increased.
That is why vacuum is avail able in an engine.
On the intake stroke, the piston moves down, this
creates a partial vacuum because the volume of the
Air
Vacuum
FIGURE 2: THE ENGINE AS A VACUUM SOURCE
5
5
the automotive vacuum system
VACUUM DISTRIBUTION
All modern automobiles have a vacuum distribution
system (FIGURE 3), consisting of lines, hoses,
ttings and vacuum devices. This system must be
leak proof. If it is not, the engine air/fuel mixture
will be leaned out by the extra air entering the
system through the leaks, thus causing problems
such as burned exhaust valves, uneven idle, stalling,
pre-ignition, burned spark plugs, etc. Additionally,
any vacuum operated device affected by the
vacuum leak will not function properly.
A normal gasoline engine should develop 16-22”
Hg of intake manifold vacuum at idle. This is an
indication that the engine is breathing properly.
If the vacuum is lower, the engine is running less
efciently. The lower the manifold vacuum, the less
efciently the engine is running and the lower the
gas mileage will be.
The vacuum distribution system supplies vacuum
to vacuum motors (servos) in the air conditioning,
power brake booster, speed control servo, emission
and automatic transmission control sys tems. In older
vehicles, vacuum is also supplied to the distributor
vacuum advance or retard mechanism. These
devices can be connected directly to man ifold
vacuum, or can be controlled through electric
solenoids, thermostatic switches, or other
vacuum controls.
TROUBLESHOOTING THE VACUUM SYSTEM
Most vacuum problems can be traced to leaks, which
occur in hoses, connectors, motor diaphragms or
valves. Pinched lines or clogged valves will also not
allow vacuum ow. Problems can also be traced to
improper mechanical operation of devices driven by
vacuum motors.
The vacuum pump can be used to measure the
amount of vacuum in a hose. The vacuum gauge
feature is very useful for detecting a fluctuating
vacuum supply or a leaky hose. The vacuum pump
feature enables you to check all types of vacuum
operated devices.
On a vacuum motor, for example, the pump is used
to evacuate the diaphragm chamber, which allows
you to check the mechanical operation of the device
as well as the amount of vacuum required to
actuate it. Test for a leaking diaphragm by applying
10” Hg vacuum to the device (FIGURE 4). Observe
the gauge to see if the needle drops after the
actuator stops moving. If the needle continues
to drop, a leaking diaphragm is indicated. If the
diaphragm is okay, the vacuum should hold for
one minute with the needle steady.
VACUUM DISTRIBUTION BLOCK
To Intake Manifold
Power Brake
Booster
Distributor
Intake Air Motor
FIGURE 3: TYPICAL VACUUM DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
Advance
6
To Speed
Control
To A/C
Heater
Auto
Trans
PRNDL Switch
Brake
Release Motor
the automotive vacuum system
Carburetor or Throttle Body
EGR Vacuum
• Zero at closed throttle
• Still zero when “S” vacuum is on
• Equal to manifold at greater
throttle opening
Spark Port Vacuum
• No vacuum at
closed throttle
• Equal to manifold vacuum off idle
• Originally used to control “spark” vacuum
to distributor advance diaphragm
FIGURE 4: TYPICAL CARBURETOR VACUUM SUPPLY POINTS
Venturi Vacuum
• Weak or zero at cruise or idle
• Strong at wide open throttle
Position when “S” and “E”
vacuum are “on”
Throttle plate (closed position)
Manifold Vacuum
• Available with engine running
• Strongest at closed throttle
• Gradually weakens as throttle opens
• But stays strong if the choke is closed
DiaGnosinG mechanical enGine conDitions
VACUUM GAUGE CHECKS & DIAGNOSIS
The pump’s vacuum gauge readings give indications
of possible mechanical problems, but they are not
foolproof. Observe the gauge carefully and follow
the vacuum readings with further tests, where
possible, to conrm your diagnosis.
Do not look for the engine to produce specic
(numerical) amounts of vacuum. Much more
important than specic numbers, are the range
of the vacuum readings and the movement of the
needle (FIGURE 5). Important things to notice about
the needle movement are HOW the needle moves
(in a smooth or jerky manner, erratic, etc.), what
direction it moves, whether movement is regular or
varying, and how far the needle moves.
The following gives some examples of what to
look for and the meanings of a variety of vacuum
gauge readings.
NORMAL ENGINE
Run engine at idle and connect the pump to an
intake manifold vacuum port. Watch the needle’s
movement on the gauge. At idle, the vacuum gauge
reading should be 16-22” Hg and steady.
BURNED OR LEAKING VALVE
At idle, burned or leaking valves will cause the
pointer on the gauge to drop to a low reading and
return to normal at a regular interval. The needle
will drop from 1 to 7” Hg at regular intervals
whenever the defective valve attempts to close.
STICKING VALVE
A sticking valve will exhibit a rapid, intermittent
drop from the normal pointer indication. This is
unlike the regular drop that characterizes a
burned or leaking valve.
A sticking valve condition may be pin-pointed by
directly applying lightweight oil to each valve guide.
When the sticking valve is reached, the situation will
be temporarily remedied.
WEAK OR BROKEN VALVE SPRING
Weak valve springs are indicated when the pointer
of the vacuum pump gauge fluctuates rapidly
between 10” and 21” Hg at idle. The uctuations
will increase with engine speed. A broken valve
spring will cause the needle to fluctuate rapidly
at a regular interval. Again, this will occur every
time the valve attempts to close.
WORN VALVE GUIDES
Worn valve guides admit air which upsets the air/
fuel mixture. The vacuum gauge reading will
be lower than normal and will fluctuate rapidly
in a range of about 3” Hg. As the speed of the
engine is increased, the needle will steady.
7
DiaGnosinG mechanical enGine conDitions
LEAKING PISTON RING
Vacuum at idle will be low but steady at about 12 to
16” Hg. Open the throttle and allow the engine to
pick up speed to about 2000 RPM, and then close
the throttle quick ly. The pointer should jump 2 to 5”
Hg above its low steady reading. A lesser gain may
indicate faulty rings, and a com plete cylinder
leakage or compression test should be done.
BLOWN CYLINDER HEAD GASKET
At idle, the vacuum pump gauge pointer will
fluctuate between normal and a low reading.
The needle will drop sharply about 10” Hg from
a normal reading and return each time the defective
cylinder or cylinders reach ring position.
EXHAUST RESTRICTION TEST
An exhaust restriction will cause normal or near normal performance at engine idle, but cause very poor
engine performance under load or at higher speeds.
1) Connect the pump hose to an intake manifold
vacuum tting. Operate the engine at idle and
note the vacuum reading and needle movement.
Compare readings and movements against
descrip tions listed for burned valves and late
ignition or valve timing.
2) Watch the vacuum gauge as engine speed is
increased to approximately 2500 RPM.
4) If the needle drops toward zero as engine RPM
is increased, either an exhaust restriction or an
over-active Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve
is causing the problem.
5) Test the EGR valve separately. If it is found to
be in good condition, the problem is a restricted
exhaust. Check and replace if necessary.
INCORRECT IDLE AIR/FUEL MIXTURE
If the gauge needle drifts slow ly back and forth at
idle, over a range of 4 to 5” Hg, the fuel mixture is
too rich. A lean mixture will cause an irregular drop
of the needle over about the same range.
INTAKE MANIFOLD OR AIR INDUCTION
LEAKS
If there are any air leaks in the air induction
system, the gauge needle will be about 3 to 9” Hg
below normal, but will remain steady.
LATE IGNITION OR VALVE TIMING
An extremely low but steady reading at idle
indicates late ignition or valve timing, or a
uniformly close setting of the valve lash.
Perform separate tests to determine which
of these problems, if any, have affected
the engine.
3) An increase in vacuum over that obtained at idle
indicates an exhaust system that is free of restrictions.
With motor at idle speed,
vacuum pointer should hold
steady between 16 and 22.
FIGURE 5: VACUUM GAUGE READINGS
With motor at idle speed,
dropping back of vacuum
pointer indicates sticky
valves.
With motor at idle speed,
floating motion right and
left of vacuum pointer
indicates carburetor too rich
or too lean.
8
With motor at idle speed, low
reading of vacuum pointer
indicates late ignition timing
or intake manifold air leak.
positive cranKcase ventilation system
SYSTEM OPERATION
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system is
used on all modern engines to reduce air pollution
by providing a more complete scavenging of crankcase vapors. Air is drawn through a lter
located in the air cleaner, through a hose in the
valve cover, into the crankcase, across and up into
the rear of the intake manifold or opposite valve
cover, through the PCV valve, through a hose, into
the intake manifold. Intake manifold vacuum draws
in all vapors from the crankcase to be burned in
the engine
When air flow through the carburetor or throttle
body is high, added air from the PCV system has
no effect on engine operation. However, at idle, air
flow through the carburetor or throttle body is so
low that any large amount added by the ventilation
system would upset the air/fuel mixture, causing a
rough idle. For this reason, the PCV valve restricts
the ventilation system flow when intake manifold
vacuum is high.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
After a period of operation, the PCV valve may
become clogged and reduce the amount of crankcase ventilation. The PCV valve should be
replaced periodically to prevent the formation of
acids in the crankcase, and the build up of excessive
crankcase pressure, which could force engine oil out
past the seals. Use the following procedure to check
the PCV system using your pump:
the intake manifold. The vacuum gauge reading
should increase slightly, indicating that the vacu um
leak has been plugged. If this does not happen,
replace the PCV valve and/or replace any damaged,
plugged or loose hoses.
4) If the engine is idling too slow or is rough, this
may be caused by a clogged PCV valve or hose.
Do not adjust the idle speed without rst checking
the PCV system.
5) After installing a new PCV valve, always adjust
the idle speed, and if possible, the idle air mixture.
The installation of the wrong valve may cause too
much vapor to flow through the system if the
calibrated bleed is too large. This will lean out the
air/fuel mixture excessively. If the opening is too
small, the plugging effect will be nullied, emissions
will increase, acids will form and oil leaks may
develop. Be sure you get the correct PCV valve
for your car.
1) Inspect the system for kinked, plugged or
deteriorated hoses. Check to be sure all hoses
are connected properly. Repair as necessary.
2) Connect your pump to an intake manifold port
and check the vacuum reading of the warmed and
idling engine.
3) Clamp off the vacuum hose to the PCV valve.
The engine speed should decrease 100 RPM to
indicate the loss of the calibrated air leak into
9
fuel pressure reGulator
SYSTEM OPERATION
Fuel pressure regulators are used to maintain
fuel pressure at a steady level, consistent with the
requirements of the engine. Automotive manufacturers employ different methods for controlling
fuel pressure. Most utilize a mechanical spring and
diaphragm style pressure regulator such as the one
shown in gure 6. Mechanical regulators most often
utilize engine vacuum and/or pressure to vary fuel
pressure in response to immediate engine require-
ments. A vacuum or vacuum/pressure pump with
appropriate gauge is required to properly diagnose
these types of regulators.
Vacuum/pressure controlled fuel pressure regulators are commonly mounted on or immediately
after the fuel rail, and inline with the flow of fuel.
When the fuel pump is not operating, the spring
causes the diaphragm to close so that no fuel can
pass. Once the fuel pump is activated, the pressure
it produces begins to overcome the spring force
and the diaphragm opens to allow fuel to flow. The
spring and diaphragm maintain a constant pressure
on the flow of fuel. This creates back-pressure in the
fuel system, which is commonly referred to as “fuel
pressure”. The job of the fuel pressure regulator is
to maintain the “fuel pressure” at a level specied
by the vehicle manufacturer.
A vacuum/pressure-modulated fuel pressure regu-
lator is connected to the intake manifold by a small
hose. Vacuum from the manifold assists the spring
in opening the diaphragm. When a load is placed
on the powertrain, engine vacuum drops. This drop
in vacuum causes the diaphragm to increase the
resistance to fuel flow. The additional resistance
increases the fuel pressure to the injectors to compensate for the higher fuel demand of the engine.
On forced-air induction systems (turbochargers/
superchargers), the boost pressure created in the
manifold functions the opposite of the vacuum produced in normally aspirated systems. Under boost
conditions, the pressure in the manifold causes the
regulator to increase fuel pressure, resulting in a
richer fuel mixture.
FIGURE 6:
PRESSURE
REGULATOR
Fuel Out
Vacuum/Pressure
Connection
Spring
Diaphragm
Fuel In
SERVICE PROCEDURES
Visual Inspection
1) Consult the vehicle’s service manual to determine
if the pressure regulator is vacuum/pressure modu-
lated, and to identify its location.
2) Inspect the exterior of the pressure regulator for
fuel leaks, and the vacuum hose for visible damage
or cracks. Replace if necessary.
3) Disconnect the vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator.
4) Check inside the hose for liquid fuel. If present,
replace the regulator. If not present, reconnect the
vacuum hose.
Diagnostics
5) Install a fuel pressure tester.
6) Start the engine and allow it to idle.
7) Disconnect the vacuum line from the fuel pres-
sure regulator.
8) Fuel pressure should increase 8 to 12 psi when
the line is disconnected. No change would indicate a
faulty regulator, or leaky or plugged vacuum line.
9) Connect the vacuum pump to the vacuum hose
extending from the manifold.
10
fuel pressure reGulator
10) The pump gauge should indicate 16-22” Hg.
Consult the vehicle’s service manual for a more
accurate specication. No reading or a low reading
would indicate a leaky or plugged vacuum line, or
more serious engine problem.
11) Disconnect the vacuum pump from the vacuum
line, and plug the line temporarily. Connect the
pump to the vacuum port on the regulator.
12) Use the pump to apply vacuum to the regulator while watching the gauge on the fuel pressure
tester.
13) Fuel pressure should increase one pound for
every two inches of Hg vacuum applied to the regulator. If not, replace the fuel pressure regulator.
Turbochargers and Superchargers
14) For forced-air induction systems (turbochargers
and superchargers) switch the pump from “Vacuum”
to “Pressure” without disconnecting it from the
regulator.
15) Use the pump to apply pressure to the regulator while watching the gauge on the fuel pressure
tester.
16) Fuel pressure should increase one pound for
every one pound of pressure applied to the regulator. If not, replace the fuel pressure regulator.
11
turbocharGer wasteGate
SYSTEM OPERATION
The turbocharger wastegate (exhaust bypass valve)
limits the amount of boost (intake manifold pressure) created by the turbo. When intake manifold
pressure becomes too high, the wastegate opens
to allow some exhaust to bypass the turbo. This
reduces the turbo boost.
Most turbo wastegate actuators operate using a
mechanical spring and diaphragm design. Under
normal operating conditions, the spring holds the
wastegate valve closed, and all exhaust is directed
to the turbocharger. A small tube connects the
wastegate actuator to the intake manifold or turbo
air outlet. When boost pressure becomes too high, it
pushes against the diaphragm until it overcomes the
spring force, causing the wastegate to open.
Testing the function of the wastegate and wastegate
actuator involves attaching the hand pump to wastegate and applying pressure.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
Follow the procedures below to diagnose a turbo- or
super-charger wastegate and actuator:
Cold Test for Visual Movement
1) Locate the wastegate actuator, and inspect it for
damage. Check the pressure hose for visible leaks
or cracks. Replace if necessary.
2) Disconnect the pressure hose from the wastegate
actuator and connect the hand pump in its place.
3) Use the pump to apply pressure according to the
manufacturer’s specication.
Idle Test
8) Start with the exhaust system cold.
9) Disconnect the pressure hose from the wastegate
actuator and connect the hand pump in its place.
10) Start the engine and allow it to idle.
11) After a short time, the exhaust inlet to the wa-
stegate should warm up, but the bypass line out of
the wastegate should remain cool.
12) If the bypass line heats up at this point, exhaust
is leaking past the wastegate, and the wastegate
should be replaced or repaired.
13) Use the pump to apply pressure to open the
wastegate according to the manufacturer’s specica-
tion.
14) Feel the bypass line. It should begin to warm up
as the wastegate opens.
15) If not, the wastegate is stuck closed and should
be replaced or repaired.
16) Once testing is complete, bleed the pressure
from the pump and watch for the wastegate to
close.
Bench Testing
A hand pump should be used to bench testing the
turbocharger wastegate, and adjusting the control
arm after replacement or repair. Follow the manufacturer’s procedures for performing these precision
tests and adjustments.
4) Watch for the control rod to move and then hold
its position.
5) If the rod doesn’t move or hold its position, or if
the pressure leaks down as indicated by the gauge
on the hand pump, replace or repair the wastegate
actuator.
6) If no leak is found, disconnect the actuator rod
and move the wastegate flapper lever to determine
if it is stuck or seized.
7) If it does not move freely, the wastegate should
be replaced or repaired.
Pressure
Connection
FIGURE 7: TURBOCHARGER
12
Wastegate Actuator
eXhaust Gas recirculation (eGr)
An Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) sys tem is used
on most modern engines to reduce Oxides of
Nitrogen (NOx) emis sions. During the combustion
process, nitrogen, which makes up 80 percent of
the air, will mix with oxygen at tempera tures
above 2,500°F. During the combustion process,
temperatures in the cylinders go well above
3,500°F providing the ideal conditions for the
formation of NOx.
SYSTEM OPERATION
To reduce the formation of NOx, it is necessary to
lower the combustion temperature. This is most
often done by introducing exhaust gases back into
the combustion chamber through the use of an
EGR valve. The EGR valve (FIGURE 8) may be
operated by ported vacuum from above the
throttle plates, or by a sophisticated control
system that modu lates the amount of EGR
depending on the temperature of the coolant,
ambient air temperature, engine speed or load.
An EGR valve that does not have a sophisticated
control system must be fully closed with a vacuum
of less than 2” Hg and begin to open with 2 to 8.5”
Hg of vacu um. At idle and wide-open throttle, the
ported vacuum supply is low and the valve should
be closed.
Some cars have a Back-Pressure Transducer Valve
(BPV) to modulate the operation of the EGR system.
Some cars have a Venturi Vacuum Amplier (VVA)
to do the same job. The effect is to modulate the
amount of EGR according to the load on the engine.
To improve cold drivability, most cars are equipped
with some type of vacuum control device to shut off
EGR while the engine is cold.
EGR systems fail in two ways. Either the valve may
fail due to a fault of its own, such as a ruptured
diaphragm, or due to a loss of control vacuum.
Always check whether there is vacuum at the hose
connected to the EGR valve, before replacing the
valve. Connect the pump to the vacuum supply hose
at the EGR valve and check whether at 2000 RPM
there is at least 4 to 5” Hg vacuum avail able.
Remember also that clogged exhaust passages that
lead to or from the valve can restrict the flow even
if the valve is opening.
An EGR valve that remains open will cause the
engine to idle roughly, die at idle, and lose power
and full-throttle smoothness. Dirt or damage in the
valve seat area usually cause the valve to fail. An
EGR valve can operate nor mally with the engine
warm but remain open when the engine is cold.
That condi tion could be caused by a faulty thermal
switching device that does not cut off the vacuum
supply when the engine is cold.
To Vacuum Source
No Vacuum Signal
Valve closed, exhaust blocked
FIGURE 8: EGR VALVE OPERATION
To Vacuum Source
Vacuum Signal Applied
Valve open, exhaust admitted to intake manifold
eXhaust Gas recirculation (eGr)
EGR SERVICE PROCEDURES/GENERAL TEST
EXCEPT GM OR BACKPRESSURE
CONTROLLED TYPE
If the symptoms of an engine lead you to believe
that an EGR valve is staying open, follow this
procedure:
1) Connect a tachometer to the engine and run
the engine at idle speed until it reaches normal
operating temperature. Use the pump to check for
at least 10” Hg vacuum at the valve. Replace the
hose and note the engine RPM.
2) Remove the vacuum hose from the valve and
notice whether engine RPM increases.
3) If engine speed does increase, there may be
some type of problem in the vacu um control
circuit. Check the routing of all vacuum hoses.
4) If engine speed or the quality of idle changes,
remove the valve and check the pintle and valve
seat to make sure both are clean. If they are not,
replace the valve, gasket and adapter if it is burned,
warped or damaged.
If the engine symptoms lead you to believe that
the EGR valve is staying closed, follow the
procedure below:
1) Operate the engine at idle until it reaches full
operating temperature. Use the pump to check for
the presence of 10” Hg vacuum at the valve. Set the
engine speed at approxi mately 2000 RPM. Plug the
vacuum supply hose. Connect the vacuum pump to
the EGR valve and apply 10 to 15” Hg vacuum.
2) The diaphragm should move to the open position
and a decrease in engine RPM should be noted. If
not, the valve is defective or the manifold passages
are plugged. Release the vacuum on the EGR valve.
3) The diaphragm should move to the closed
position and an increase in engine RPM should be
noted. Return the engine to idle and turn it off.
4) Connect the pump to the EGR valve and test by
applying at least 9” Hg of vacuum to the diaphragm
and watch the gauge careful ly for any vacuum loss.
5) If the valve diaphragm does not move, or cannot
hold vacuum, replace the EGR valve.
GM EGR VALVES
General Motors produces three types of EGR valves.
Each valve can be identied by the design of its
diaphragm plate (FIG URE 9). The rst valve is a
ported vacu um EGR that has only a circular rib on
the back of its diaphragm plate. The second is a
positive backpressure valve with X- shaped ribs that
are raised only slightly above the plate. Finally,
there is a negative back-pressure valve with
X-shaped ribs raised well above the diaphragm
plate. Both the ported vacuum and negative
back-pressure valves are tested the same way.
A separate test is listed to check the positive
back-pressure valve.
GM PORTED VACUUM AND NEGATIVE
BACK-PRESSURE EGR TEST
1) Make sure all vacuum hoses are routed
according to the emission control label.