Toyota Repair: EGR system, toyota service, gas tank

Question
I have a 1996 Toyota Carolla 4 cylinder(my baby the Green Machine.) My check engine light has been on for a while. For about 2 weeks my car has had problems starting. On a flat surface or if the engine is above the gas tank it will start but when I put it in Drive it will shut off. So now I have to park where my gas tank is higher than my engine. I went to the Auto Zone and they said it was the EGR valve and the part is $150. I took it to get a tune up but he said nothing was showing fire and everything looked good (still have original parts.) and a tune-up was not needed at this time but the EGR system needed to be replaced in order for the check engine light to go off. Tommorrow I'm taking it to the Toyota service to have it checked and maybe fixed. I have over 208,000 miles and I fear taking it to someone else. My question is does it sound like the EGR system has failed or is failing and should I take it to the toyota service center? (had since 99 only problems change starter 2000 riped hole in gas tank 10/2005 replaced brand new.) PLEASE HELP ME MIKE! NOT READY TO REPLACE THE GREEN MACHINE!!!!

Answer
You may be able to clean out the EGR if its just clogged. sometimes the diaprham is worn out, other times its just choked with carbon, which can be cleaned out,
Youll need to fix what you know is wrong and then reevaluate the stalling problem which may or may not be related, take it one step at a time.


Mike