Can a leaking EGR tube affect performance?

[imq707s]

I've got a 97' Mountaineer (just like an X) with a 5.0 liter V8. Over the last few weeks I've been hearing a ticking noise that I've tracked back to the ERG tube that come out of the passenger side exhause manifold and runs to the back of the intake manifold. After the motor gets really warmed up, the ticking goes away. I'm sure that as the metal tube heats up, the crack in the tube almost seals back up.

Here is my question, will a small exhaust leak in the EGR tube affect performance and gas millage? And if it does, can someone explain why.

I'm just trying to decide if I should fix it or just leave it since the ticking sound goes away after the motor warms up.

If feels like the motor is a little slugish, and doesn't have as much power as before, but that could all be in my head

 

[huskyfan23]

I doubt a real small leak will have any affect on your performance or mileage. Both my headers have small leaks where the joint of the header and y-pipe meet. The ticking annoys me but I can't find anyone to weld it, and it's not hurting anything, so I'm leaving it as is.

 

[Cali' Explorer]

The EGR Tube does have an effect on the engine. If it does seal itself up as it warms up, it won't cause too many problems. The EGR tube puts exhaust back into the engine which keeps the engine from detonating by limiting the amount of fuel/air that is in the intake. It also reduces the emissions coming out of your car.

I would say that as long as you aren't having problems at idle with it and you aren't trying to get it smogged, I wouldn't worry about it. But, I also seem to remember that tube being a rather common one to actual crack and break, in which case your EGR will not work at all and would throw a CEL.

But, if you're not worried, I say just leave it until it goes, it really shouldn't affect performance and mileage much if at all (and I seem to remember that tube being fairly expensive to purchase).