EGR Modulator FILTER - Clean or replace? Where?

[hawkman71]

I'm involved in trying to fix that P0401 code, and have read all the forums I can find on it. I've borrowed a vacuum pump from my auto parts store, and am trying to figure out exactly what I'm going to do. (Everyone's instructions seem a little different).

Anyhow, I took the modulator off last weekend just to peek at it, and the filter inside the cap, is very dirty, especially a small area on the bottom of the filter.

I don't see these for sale at the autoparts store, so how do I clean it?

Also where do I look for carbon buildup, and how do I clean that?

Thanks.

[TOYOPARTSMAN]

the modulator should sit just above the EGR valve. You can clean that white filter and put it back but be careful on the inside so you don't clog it.

If you decide to buy an OEM one, let me know because I do offer the members a 30% discount on Genuine Toyota Parts. I am an authorized Toyota Dealer and a Supporting Vendor on this site.

Good luck and hope the information is useful to you.

[hawkman71]

I meant, what should I clean the filter with? I can't find the filter itself online, just the whole modulator.

[TOYOPARTSMAN]

Never cleaned one myself, but I am guessing either just plain water, seafoam, or brake cleaner.

[JesusJones]

You pop the top off the modulator then just blow it out with some compressed air and maybe give it a shot of some solvent. It won't be that dirty. To test the modulator you need to apply PRESSURE not vacuum to the bottom port. Then one of the top ports(can't remember which one) will no longer pass air freely. If it's working you should be able to figure it out.

To test your egr. Take the vacuum hose that comes off the vacuum switch after the modulator and apply vacuum directly to the egr with the car fully warmed up. If your car dies your egr valve and passages are still working to some extent.

Hope that helps