Pontiac Repair: Pontiac Grand prix EGR, intake manifold gasket, pontiac grand prix

Question
On my 97 Grand Prix, 3.1 V6, Got a trouble code #401 EGR valve, said insufficient flow, Bought a replacemnet part. When I pulled the old valve off,  noticed a mikly goo coming from the intake side of the valve body. Tried to clean it out as best I could with suction and swabs. Replaced EGR valve, still getting the trouble code.

Is it possible I am getting a coolant leak in that upper intake manifld area? Could that cause the goo? What do you suggest as the next diagnostic step? can you venture a possible cuase for this set of symptoms?

Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Greg:

well a few things the flow issue with the egr valve is cause by a plugged or restricted passage between the valve and the intake manifold. Thers is a channel in the aluminum that the egr gases flow from the valve into the manifold. That plugges up with carbon and it cause the code to set. The best way to clean it out is with a coat hanger and dig the carcong out from both sides from the valve side and from the manifold side. take the throttle body off and you will see the hole on the insode of the manifold runner. As for the Milky goo it's cause by condensation more than likley from a leaking lower intake manifold gasket. The gaskets have more than likely failed and are starting to leak coolant into the crank case. It's very common on this engine with higher milage. Good luck :)