Hi All,

I have an F-250 Super duty with the 5.4 L engine and have just received a “Service Engine” error code of P1406. My OBD II scanner code sheet does not list that code, but calling the “Actron Hotline” quickly got me Tony who told me my code meant that the ERG valve pindle was stuck open. He asked me if the truck engine stumbled at idle; it doesn’t, so he was then unsure of the problem and suggested I inspect the pindle and clean any carbon off of it.

Since my truck just hauled my 1910 Model T from NH to Dearborn and back I would not suspect much carbon in the engine. I got the code the second day after I arrived in Dearborn. The code was erased on return to NH and it has since not re-appeared after about 4 run cycles.

Question: In the forum’s collective experience, should I do as Tony suggests, or is there something better to do?

Thanks, Roland

 

It's not all that unusual for the EGR to stick. I'd check it to see if it moves relatively freely. If it does, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

The 1406 code actually is for the position sensor. It's also possible that the sensor had a hiccup and there's nothing wrong with the valve.

If you get the code again, and have less than 50k on the truck, I would consider calling your local Ford garage, since emission control devices are covered by a 50,000 mile warranty.

If you have more than 50k and you're not having driveability problems, I'd just leave it. My wife's minivan has been throwing an EGR code for a long time, but it hasn't caused any kind of driveability problem, so I just check it occasionally call it good.

 

Hi Oppy,

To "check it to see if it moves relatively freely", do I need to remove it? How to check? It is not in the service manuals.

Thanks

My F-250 SD 5.4 has 92,000 miles on it.

Thanks, Roland

 

Actually, I think I misspoke about that. I think you may have an all electronic EGR which I think would be impossible to check externally.

Unfortunately, I do not have my Ford service CDs with me, so I can't verify the exact testing procedure for you.

Generally, testing a mechanical EGR valve involves removing and plugging the vacuum hose to it and applying vacuum to the valve. If it leaks back, that is a sign the valve is going. You can also apply varying amounts of vacuum to the EGR while the engine is running. If you notice a difference in how the engine runs (i.e. rough idle, missing), then the valve is probably okay.

I'm sure there is a testing procedure for the position sensor as well. If noone chimes in before Saturday, I will try to get it from my manual and post it.

 

Thanks Oppy, I'll investigate fruther. Roland