2005 xlt egr system module (esm)

[ridged43]

After hours of reading through threads on here and another site, I have found that 2004 and up model Explorers have the EGR SYSTEM MODULE (ESM). This is an EGR valve, sensor and solenoid all built into one unit. I have not found very much information regarding cleaning,testing, etc. of this unit. The parts cannot be purchased seperatley because it is a combined unit. I am hoping to have someone respond to this thread that can tell me some procedures such as cleaning, maybe some expereince in what failed if anything or was it plugged, wire colors for testing and how much vacuum can be applied to the valve without damaging the diaphram etc. Again, I have been reading the threads for several days so doing a search on here has been done already. Any information on this is greatly appreciated. The engine is a 4.0 flex and it's running fine, idling fine and no complaints other than I want the SES light off. I have cleared the codes 3 different times and within 20 miles of driving, P0401 is the only code that comes back.
Thanks again for any help...

 

[High_Order1]

I can't help you with the cleaning. All I did was replace mine, and no more issues. It is a PITA to get to, though. And, nobody but the dealership had one.

Shawn

 

[ridged43]

I can't help you with the cleaning. All I did was replace mine, and no more issues. It is a PITA to get to, though. And, nobody but the dealership had one.

Shawn

I was afraid of that. Right now I have my fingers crossed. I pulled all the vacuum lines off and the electrical connector. Cleaned the small tube from the sensor to the valve. Wasn't plugged. Started the engine and checked for vacuum. Plenty of vacuum at the intale and through the red and black vacuum lines to the solenoid. Put it all back together. Decided to check the big pipe from the exhaust to the valve. While I was working around the valve there was lots of black soot on everything. Couldn't break the bottom loose at the exhaust. Tried the connection at the valve and it was tight but broke free pretty easy. Decided to put it all back together and tightened the connection at the valve really tight. Cleared the code P0401. So far I have driven it 35 minutes, (22 miles) and no SES light. Normally it has been coming back on within 12 to 15 miles. We'll see. If not, replacement time.

 

[easy2no]

Its a PIA to change but not impossible... Two screws in back and off it came... Best pricing I found was Gaudin Ford, Las Vegas... Mail order on the 5L2Z9D475A value was 88.71 plus shipping... Good Luck

 

[ridged43]

Its a PIA to change but not impossible... Two screws in back and off it came... Best pricing I found was Gaudin Ford, Las Vegas... Mail order on the 5L2Z9D475A value was 88.71 plus shipping... Good Luck

Thanks for the info. You're right, pulling it is not that difficult. My biggest problem was getting the nut loose at the exhaust on the exhaust tube. I cleaned it all up real good and the light stayed off for two hours of constant driving. Came back on the next day. Time to replace I guess.