F53 460 V-8 EGR Valve

[fervbob]

A couple of years ago, we had a problem with the engine dying when slowing to a stop in our 98 Winnebago. It would not stay at idle. The Check Engine light did not illuminate. I Took it to a Ford truck dealer where they found codes indicating the EGR Valve, the fix for which was to clean it and reinstall it. They also told me that fuel injector cleaner would help prevent it from happening again, so I have put in Progard with Techron from time to time, although not recently. Well, it started having the same symptoms again during the most recent trip, so I added 5 bottles of Progard to an almost full gas tank. The problem actually disappeared after driving about 100 miles, so now I'm wondering how common a problem this is, assuming the most recent episode is a repeat issue with the EGR valve. Is this something others have experienced with this engine? I'm wondering if this Progard additive effectively cleaned the EGR valve enough to get it working correctly again. If so, I guess I'll add it every time I fuel the coach. Are there other products that will prevent EGR valve issues? Any recommendations will be appreciated!

[Wanabee FTer]

I have not had any problems with my EGR valve, but problems may arise from certain driving conditions or habits. The EGR (exhaust gas recirculation valve) only operates after the engine is fully warmed up. A portion of spent exhaust gas is rerouted through this valve to be re-burned inside the combustion chamber.
Short distance driving can cause EGR systems to gum up, but also I have seen certain fuels can cause carbon buildup which will leave deposits inside the EGR ports and valves. I try to stay away from the super low cut rate fuels because they have been known to add unwanted additives to keep the price down. Most name brand fuels will add different additives to combat carbon buildup.
Some people say use the cheap stuff and just add fuel additives. Others like me say forget the additives and use a higher grade fuel.

[Lt46]

This year I experienced something similar. Upon exiting a highway and while slowing on the off ramp, my 460 would stall. It would always restart but not idle. My solution was to replace the idle air controller. I initially tried cleaning the IAC with spray Seafoam and then ran a tank full of gas/Seafoam mix. Never really cured the problem until I replaced the IAC. I've not had any problem with the EGR on mine.

[Pirate]

I think I had to replace the IAC and EGR on my 97 unit. The EGR was toast.