True, but why would the engine rev and smooth out when I tap it otherwise? I'd figure the valve itself simply because if the passage is blocked there's no flow regardless, so tapping it wouldn't do a thing. Plus, the valve is brand new. With the exception of two thermo sensors, all the sensors are new and tested/calibrated, most importantly the TPS and O2 sensor. Man, just what I need- ANOTHER mystery problem, lol. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Wow, I always thought the EGR just recycled into the plenum chamber itself. Given the condition of the inside of the plenum last time I looked at it, I should probably clean the hell out of it, lol. However, if that tube is clogged would tapping on the valve smooth out my idle? Seems that if it was gunked up it wouldn't matter either way since I'd be getting little or no flow. Hmm, regardless I'll remove it and clean the hell out of it but I think I need to go through and test all my emissions components, I wonder if something isn't hooked up right or not working right and holding that valve slightly open...

Interesting problem. I am always trying to make my idle smoother. I wonder if when you tap it the diaphram in it lets some vacuum loose and sends a signal that the car is warmed up, or is running too cool, changing the fuel air mix. MAybe it is affecting the cold start injector, but that is a swing in the dark.