EGR Cooler Cleaning - is it REALLY necessary?

[wiley75]

Hello All,
I just recently rolled 67,500 miles on my 2008 and as expected the "Perform Service" message popped up on the overhead display. I am prepared to replace the CCV filter, clean the EGR valve, and clean the EGR cooler. However, I have been wondering is it really necessary to clean the cooler itself? Anybody have an opinion of what the drawbacks would be if I just left the cooler alone and didn't clean it? I suppose the cooler itself could become less efficient, due to carbon fouling. Meaning that less heat would be exchanged between the exhaust gas and the engine coolant, and therefore the exhaust gas temperature entering the engine intake elbow could be higher. But probably not by much.

I'll definitely be cleaning the EGR valve and replacing the CCV filter. Just questioning the EGR cooler cleaning itself.
Share your thoughts please! Thanks

Wiley -
2008 6.7, G56, bone stock

 

[RVTRKN]

When you remove and clean the cooler, all of your questions will be answered. I couldn't believe all of the crap that came out of the cooler, and the buildup on the heater grid which is hard to clean without carbon falling into the intake. While you have the air horn off, tap it for an 1/8" NPT fitting, for a boost gauge. Also tap it before the EGR to keep your fitting and tubing from building up with carbon. The hollow bolt I used for boost connection at the air horn was coated as well with carbon. I'll probably do mine again earlier than specified by Dodge because it was so dirty. BTW, Geno's sells a great kit for the EGR service and can include the CCV filter.

Good luck!

 

[Bob4x4]

I have customers that opted not to clean the cooler at multiple intervals with no adverse affects,with a disclaimer of course your mileage may vary.I have seen more issues by mistakes made from diy attempts at the cooler cleaning.

 

[RVTRKN]

If your not mechanically inclined, DO NOT ATTEMPT IT YOURSELF. However if you follow the instructions in Geno's kit, and you don't have to buy their kit to get the instructions, it is easy per following the instructions. However the full cleaning is not an easy task, but I recommend it, at least mine was full of Carbon.

 

[pcarlson]

Opinion, the cooler isn't necessary to clean. 6.7 in other trucks do not have this requirement. Dealer here has never cleaned one.

I did not clean mine. I did the egr because its critical that it function correctly. I've had zero problems.

My grid heater was clean and required zero attention. I'd look at yours and clean if you have a build up. If you live somewhere warm I bet your grid heat is built up. Mine has to work so I think that burns the soot off and why I didn't have to clean it.