_{Mitsubishi Pajero EGR: Blank it or leave it?}

Blanking the EGR is now an MOT fail, so many owners now clean and repair them. Over the years, I've had enquiries about excessive smoking on Mitsubishi Pajeros and consequently how to blank the EGR valve, even where the cause of the smoke is unknown. My thoughts are that if the Pajero EGR is working properly, there's no reason to blank it, unless you want to. If the EGR is faulty, you could fix it or blank it. I have compiled this so you can make up your own mind about blanking a Pajero EGR system.

Here’s my understanding of how the EGR works on the Mitsubishi Pajero.

1. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) detects accelerator position, engine speed & transmission information. It decides when the EGR is needed. When needed, it sends a signal to the EGR. It should not trigger EGR at idling, low load, or full load.
2. The signal activates a solenoid, which opens a vacuum line.
3. Vacuum is separately generated by a pump as a diesel engine does not have vacuum at inlet manifold. The same vacuum is used for brake booster.
4. The spindle in the EGR valve moves when the vacuum is applied. This allows inert exhaust gas to be introduced to the engine.
5. The inert gas (exhaust) has of course been produced by the engine.
6. The engine responds to inert gas. Oxygen concentration is decreased by addition of inert gas, resulting in lower combustion temperature, and thus less nitrous oxide.

There are 3 general operating modes for the EGR system.

Mode 1: EGR works properly: Engine produces less nitrous oxide.

Mode 2: Excess EGR: Poor idling, smoke when idling, flat spots when accelerating, lack of power at full power.

The main causes for this failure are:

ECU generates the wrong signal: Replace ECU.

Control signal not received by solenoid: Check wiring.

Solenoid not moving: Replace.

EGR valve spindle travels too far: Spring weak – Replace.

EGR valve spindle does not move: Stuck by debris in open, closed or intermediate
position (intermittent or persistent): Clean valve or replace.

EGR valve spindle does not move: Diaphragm torn: Replace.

Idle speed too high - fix.

Exhaust back pressure: Possible obstruction: Replace exhaust.

Mode 3: No EGR effect: Combustion temperature rises, adding thermal stress to engine, consider the possibility of adverse long term reliability. (I understand that in 10+ years, nobody has proved ill effect. (Please advise if you know different.)
Increased Nitrous oxide production, therefore increased pollution.
Possible causes of this are:
Same as points 1-5 above.

Vacuum line blocked or deliberately plugged: Check vacuum pressure.

Blockage (blanking plate!) in pipe.

Is the Pajero EGR valve working? Try these 2 simple tests.
1. If you can access your EGR valve stem, push it against spring pressure. It should move freely and return fully. If it doesn’t, remove the valve for cleaning or replacement.
2. With the engine at normal operating temperature, open the throttle to 2,500rpm while watching the EGR valve stem. It should move, then return. If it doesn't, remove the hose and feel for vacuum as you rev it again. If you feel vacuum, the valve's at fault.

If there’s no vacuum, see mode 3 above.

Should you blank the Pajero EGR?
Excess EGR (mode 2) reduces the performance of the vehicle. In this case, it is possible to disable the EGR system entirely, so that it operates in mode 3. This may have some possible negative consequences, including possible hotter combustion temperature, which might reduce engine life. But I'm not aware of this theory being proved. (If you know different, let me know.)

If you plug the vacuum line with a ball bearing and the EGR valve is stuck in an open position, it will have no effect. In my opinion, blanking the Pajero EGR with a blanking plate is better than using a ball bearing. EGR blanking plates for the Pajero will need to withstand very high temperatures, so quality stainless steel would do the trick. (Don't use layers of thin steel or a coin as these have been known to disintegrate and cause damage.) There is also the option of cleaning the EGR system.

Mitsubishi Delica and Spacegear

You can fit a lot of people and equipment into a Delica! They're a great all round vehicle with good off road capability.

The Mitsubishi Delica has an interesting history since its first production as a commercial vehicle in 1963. The Delica was so popular, a year later two more versions were produced, including the Star Wagon that could comfortably seat 9 passengers!

In 1979, 10 model variations were added. And in 1982 the first 4 wheel drive model was introduced, establishing the Mitsubishi Delica’s reputation for reliability and performance.

A more aerodynamic model appeared in 1986; more stylish, with an additional number of safety features, coupled with reliable 4wd capability. It was a popular recreational vehicle.

The Mitsubishi Space Gear followed in 1994. Known here as the L200, the Mitsubishi Space Gear’s safety features, reliability and 4wd performance extended its appeal for almost another 20 years.

How to check Nissan Largo oil level.
The Largo oil dipstick is under the passenger seat.Undo the 2 clips that hold down the seat. Tip the seat back.There's a wing nut under the front section of carpet. Undo this and slide the panel out. The yellow dipstick is towards the front. The black oil filler cap is higher up, at the back of the opening. Remove this to top up the oil.

How overdrive works on a Toyota Estima.

Overdrive Light on = Overdrive off.

Overdrive light off = Overdrive on.

When overdrive is on, the engine will produce less revs and may save fuel.

How to check oil level on a Toyota Estima.

The oil dipstick is under the passenger seat: Tip the seat back, open the inspection hatch. The dip stick has a red & white top. Oil level can be checked at operating temperature with gear selector in ‘park’ position.