Fox T-Bird/Cougar Forums

Technical => Engine Tech => Topic started by: larrycar78 on January 02, 2005, 11:35:48 AM

Title: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: larrycar78 on January 02, 2005, 11:35:48 AM
What is the purpose of the EGR spacer and is it needed if the smog equipment removed?
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on January 02, 2005, 03:08:19 PM
The EGR spacer can be removed, but if you are using a stock throttle cable, you'll need to fab up a bracket to mount and correctly locate it.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: Tbird232ci on January 02, 2005, 09:46:31 PM
the EGR spacer is used to space the EGR
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: larrycar78 on January 02, 2005, 09:56:42 PM
I know this is a dumb question, but not being too familiar with Fords, what does the the exhaust gas recirc do, why is it needed. Is it part of the pollution control? Thanks.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: lowcat on January 02, 2005, 11:11:31 PM
Quote from: Tbird232ci
the EGR spacer is used to space the EGR

 :giggle:  Priceless
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: 1986Tbird on January 02, 2005, 11:12:43 PM
I think part of it is to get better gas mileage, it also decreases performance because you are putting exhaust gas back through the engine. I also think it has something to do with emissions.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: Tbird232ci on January 03, 2005, 10:14:22 AM
Quote from: larrycar78
I know this is a dumb question, but not being too familiar with Fords, what does the the exhaust gas recirc do, why is it needed. Is it part of the pollution control? Thanks.

its used to cool the cumbustion chambers under part throttle conditions, reducing NOX and stuff
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on January 03, 2005, 07:46:56 PM
Quote from: 1986Tbird
I think part of it is to get better gas mileage, it also decreases performance because you are putting exhaust gas back through the engine. I also think it has something to do with emissions.

To my knowledge properly working EGR has nothing to do with gas milage, does not hurt performance(it only operates on part throttle), and yes as Shawn has already stated, it helps reduce oxides of nitrogen(NOX) emissions.

I've had working EGR on my Bird from day one of the 5.0 install...
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: JeremyB on January 03, 2005, 08:56:42 PM
Quote from: TurboCoupe50
To my knowledge properly working EGR has nothing to do with gas milage, does not hurt performance(it only operates on part throttle), and yes as Shawn has already stated, it helps reduce oxides of nitrogen(NOX) emissions.

A properly functioning EGR system increases fuel economy and reduces NOX emissions. The inert recycled exhaust gasses result in a cooler combustion temperature (thus the reduction in NOX) and allows the timing to be advanced. The inert gasses also decrease pumping losses and help to increase fuel economy along with the advanced timing.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: jcassity on January 03, 2005, 11:10:15 PM
actually ,, you should mention what engine and year you have.

If you have an 87 or down 3.8, you have to take a second look at the egr chamber milled into the actual intake and fill it with epoxy to block off the port.  From that point,, you can cut off the part that holds the egr and the 3 bolts section till all your left with is an aluminum spacer plate. 

Your gonna have to run some sort of spacer or the actual spring loaded linkage on the CFI(if that is what you have) will bump into the intake.

not sure what year or engine so ,, thats my .02 worth.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: Tbird232ci on January 04, 2005, 10:15:50 AM
something else i forgot to mention, it does help prevent detonation
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: Ifixyawata on January 04, 2005, 10:21:52 AM
It only recirculates the exhaust at any sizable amount at cruising speeds when the car doesn't need full power to keep moving.
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: larrycar78 on January 05, 2005, 10:17:34 PM
thanks everyone for the answers, i'm learning (slowly). sorry i took so long to respond.
I have more questions coming, like, will my 88 AOD trans work o.k. with an 89 HO motor. I know the TV cable connects the two of them. I can't see there being a problem but just thought I'd ask, also. will 1 5/8" shorty headers work or should I stick to 1/1/2"? They will be going on my 88 302 t'bird motor or the 89HO motor. I'm still deciding if I will do the swap. First I am having the trans checked as I have a small problem, may need a new valve body. If I don't need a rebuild I will drop in the HO motor. Only have so much money to spend and an understanding wife (sometimes).
Title: Re: EGR spacer needed?
Post by: Haystack on January 05, 2005, 11:11:34 PM
virtally any tranny from a 5.0 block will work with another.  The 1 5/8" headers would be better for 225 or higher hp. So if you plan on upgradeing the HO engine then the 1 5/8" would be best. If I were you I would go with the 89 HO . Mainly because Its already mass air, So that means slightly better gas mileage, better upgraded parts and its just alot better for power. You will get alot more bang for you buck. But if it just has to work then I would go with which on was in the best shape.