The OEM EGR gaskets are metal and dont "blow out." Maybe someone replaced yours with paper at some point. It needs to be sealed none the less. I agree that its probably not your problem, but I would go ahead and fix it and move on to the thermostat and the temp sender.

My 89 had a hole in the EGR pipe when I got it. It wouldnt pass smog but idled fine.

99 Gen 2.5, fixing blown head gasket
89 SWB- 33's, ARB Front locker, SR rear locker/axle, SR F brakes, winch, WST Offroad Armor all Around, 2.85 Aussie T-case Gears (SOLD)
Sold: (2) 95 SR's, 86 SWB, 90LWB, 91 LWB
-Can Change a timing belt in my sleep..