Giving Your Old 22R a Breather: Understanding the EGR Delete 22R
Alright, folks, let's chat about something a bit controversial in the world of vintage Toyota pickups and 4Runners: the EGR delete 22R. If you're running one of these legendary, tough-as-nails engines, chances are you've either thought about it, heard about it, or are currently scratching your head wondering what all the fuss is about. This isn't just about ripping out parts; it's a decision with implications for your truck's performance, its longevity, and, let's be super clear upfront, its legality in many places. So, grab a coffee (or a wrench, if you're feeling ambitious), and let's break it down like we're leaning over the fender together.
What's This EGR Thing Anyway?
First off, what in the world is EGR? It stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. Essentially, it's a system designed to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. How does it do that? By taking a small amount of exhaust gas and routing it back into the intake manifold to be re-burned. Sounds counterintuitive, right? But think of it this way: hot exhaust gases are inert; they don't combust. When they mix with the incoming fuel-air mixture, they lower the peak combustion temperatures in the cylinders. Lower combustion temps mean less NOx formation. It's a clever little bit of engineering designed to make your truck a bit greener.
Now, on paper, that's great. Environmentally responsible and all. But in the real world, especially with older engines like our beloved 22R and 22RE, these systems can become a bit of a headache.
Why Even Consider an "EGR Delete 22R"?
So, if EGR is for the environment, why would anyone want to get rid of it? Good question. The truth is, on an old 22R, a functioning EGR system can sometimes feel like it's causing more problems than it solves.
For starters, these systems, particularly the older vacuum-operated ones, are prone to failure. We're talking about sticky valves, cracked vacuum lines, carbon buildup clogging passages, and diaphragms that just give up the ghost. When an EGR valve gets stuck open, you can experience a rough idle, stumbling, poor fuel economy, and even stalling. If it's stuck closed, you might not notice as much day-to-day, but your engine could be creating more NOx than it should, and potentially running a little hotter in the combustion chambers, though the latter is less of a concern on these relatively low-compression, naturally aspirated engines.
Many owners eye the EGR delete 22R for a few primary reasons:
- Simplicity: The 22R engine bay, while not terribly complex, can be simplified even further by removing the EGR valve, associated plumbing, and vacuum lines. Fewer parts mean fewer potential points of failure, fewer vacuum leaks to chase down, and a tidier look. For those who love the minimalist approach to mechanics, this is a big draw.
- Addressing Existing Problems: Often, the decision comes after troubleshooting a rough idle or poor performance for ages, only to find the EGR system is the culprit. Instead of replacing expensive or hard-to-find components, an EGR delete offers a permanent solution to that particular problem.
- Perceived Performance/Reliability: While an EGR delete isn't going to turn your 22R into a drag racer, a malfunctioning EGR system can definitely hurt performance. Removing a faulty one can restore smoothness and responsiveness. Plus, a cleaner intake manifold (no exhaust gas recirculating means less soot buildup) is generally a good thing for long-term engine health.
The "EGR Delete 22R" Process: What's Involved?
Okay, so you're thinking about it. What does an actual EGR delete entail? It's generally a pretty straightforward job for anyone with basic mechanical skills and a decent set of tools.
Parts You'll Likely Need:
- Block-off plates: These are usually small metal plates designed to cover the exhaust manifold port and the intake manifold port where the EGR valve once sat. You can buy kits online or, if you're handy, even fabricate them yourself from a bit of steel.
- Gaskets: Don't forget new gaskets for those block-off plates to ensure a good seal.
- Vacuum caps: You'll need to cap off any vacuum lines that previously went to the EGR valve or its related components.
Tools:
Basic wrenches, sockets, a screwdriver set, and maybe some penetrating oil for stubborn bolts.
The Steps (in a Nutshell):
- Locate everything: Identify the EGR valve itself, typically mounted on the back or side of the intake manifold, with a metal tube running to the exhaust manifold.
- Disconnect: Carefully disconnect any vacuum lines and electrical connectors (if it's an electronic EGR, more common on later 22RE models).
- Unbolt and Remove: Unbolt the EGR valve and the metal pipe. Be prepared for some seized bolts; a little heat or penetrating oil can be your friend here.
- Install Block-off Plates: Clean the mating surfaces thoroughly, then install your block-off plates with new gaskets. Torque them down properly.
- Cap Off Vacuum Lines: This is crucial. Any open vacuum ports will cause a vacuum leak, leading to all sorts of running problems. Use good quality rubber or silicone vacuum caps.
Now, a quick note on the 22RE (the fuel-injected version): If you have a 22RE, removing the EGR system will almost certainly trigger your "Check Engine Light" because the ECU (Engine Control Unit) will detect that the EGR isn't functioning. On a 22RE, the ECU often has a dedicated sensor for EGR flow. While the light will be on, for the 22RE specifically, this usually doesn't put the engine into limp mode or cause major performance issues beyond the light being an annoyance. For carbureted 22R engines, you typically won't have a check engine light to worry about.
Benefits and the Big Disadvantage of the "EGR Delete 22R"
Let's lay it all out.
The Upsides:
- Cleaner Intake: Less carbon buildup in your intake manifold, meaning better airflow and potentially a cleaner burn.
- Fewer Headaches: Eliminates a common source of vacuum leaks and rough running issues. Simplifies troubleshooting later on.
- Tidier Engine Bay: Visually, it can make your engine bay look a bit cleaner and less cluttered, which some folks appreciate.
The Downside (And It's a HUGE One):
- Legality and Emissions: This is the elephant in the room. In most places, removing or disabling an EGR system is illegal for street-driven vehicles. If your area has emissions testing, your vehicle will fail, plain and simple. Even if you don't have visual inspections or tailpipe tests, it's still considered tampering with an emissions control device, which is a federal offense in the US.
- Environmental Impact: Let's not forget the original purpose. You will be increasing your truck's NOx emissions. If you're concerned about your environmental footprint, this is something to seriously consider.
This modification is generally only recommended for vehicles used strictly off-road, in areas without emissions regulations, or for specific race applications where street legality isn't a concern. Always check your local laws before performing an EGR delete. Seriously. Don't skip this step.
Before You Grab Those Wrenches: Some Important Considerations
So, you're still weighing your options? Here are a few more things to chew on:
- Your Truck's Purpose: Is this your daily driver in a state with strict emissions? Then, honestly, an EGR delete probably isn't for you. Is it a dedicated trail rig that rarely sees asphalt? Then the conversation changes.
- Other Issues: Don't expect an EGR delete to fix a tired engine with other problems. If you've got low compression, a clogged carburetor, or a worn-out fuel pump, getting rid of the EGR isn't going to magically solve those. Address the fundamental issues first.
- Reversibility: Keep your old EGR parts! If you ever decide to sell the truck, or if you move to an area with stricter laws, being able to revert to stock is a big advantage. It also affects resale value.
- Your Mechanical Comfort Level: While simple, any modification to your engine carries a small risk. If you're not comfortable turning a wrench, consider getting help from someone who is.
My Two Cents
The EGR delete 22R is a classic modification for these venerable engines, often driven by a desire for simplicity and to remedy recurring issues with an aging emissions system. For many, it's about making their old truck run reliably without constantly chasing vacuum leaks or replacing expensive, sometimes flaky, parts. There's a certain satisfaction in simplifying an engine, making it easier to work on and understand.
However, the legal and ethical implications are real and can't be ignored. If you're going down this road, do your homework, understand the risks, and be absolutely sure you're operating within the confines of the law for your specific vehicle and location. For off-road warriors and those in specific regulatory environments, it can be a worthwhile mod. For everyone else, repairing or replacing the EGR might be the path of least resistance. Either way, keeping these old 22Rs purring is what it's all about!