QuestionI have a 1980 Spitfire that has a faulty EGR valve. It won't hold any vacuum and I am wondering if it is possible to repair vs. replace the valve. Also, how does a non-functioning EGR valve effect the idle vs. acceleration of the engine? So long as the feed hose is plugged so as not to leak vacuum would it's functionality dramatically effect the running of the engine? I recently also had to replace the radiator, which I was able to do on ebay for a a significant savings. However I have found that a previous owner rewired the cooling fan direct to the key so it comes on and goes off with the key. Would this be a problem with a buildup of heat on warm days when the engine is hot and shut off?
Thx,
Frank
AnswerI never heard of anyone repairing an EGR; it isn't designed to be rebuilt. Most everyone removes and plugs the hole in the manifold, or replaces the manifold with an earlier manifold or header.
EGR connects the exhaust to the intake. If this EGR is in the intake manifold, then it could cause a intake manifold leak if left in place, depending on how it is failing.
If you want to deactivate it, Pull out the EGR, and plug the hole with a bolt or plumbing fitting of the same thread (or replace the entire manifold. that year was so poorly flowing, you woul benefit from fitting an earlier 1500 manifold that has not fittings for the EGT). They are cheap and commonly available on ebay or the spitfire group lists if you ask around.
If you are going to plug, the hole isn't NPT, so you'll have to fish around for a non tapered stud or bolt of that size.
With respect to the fan not running when the fan is shut off, as long as your cooling system is in good condition, it should not be a problem; back then fans didn' t run after shut-off (or at least it didn't on my 1980 spit) . If you buy an aftermarket fan controller, you might be able to find one that can.
