Espace 2.2 TD Emissions Mot Failure

[nesssalmon]

Hi All.

I have a 1998 'S' Reg 2.2TD Grand Espace RXE, that has just failed its mot.
I am not bothered about most of the mechanical failures e.g. track rods end, drag links and a damaged rear spring, but she failed on excessive amounts of metered smoke.

The average reading was 4.04 1/m whereas it should have been under 3.0
Is there any obvious common fault that anyone could pinpoint? EGR valve for instance? Not even sure if I have a EGR valve on a 2.2DT?

I read somewhere that a good hard drive can sometimes clear any carbon deposits?

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated

Cheers
Rob

[AndersDK]

I read somewhere that a good hard drive can sometimes clear any carbon deposits?

...which equals an "Italian tune-up". It works much better than you think.
Even better if you have fresh engine oil and filter fitted ...
And to be sure, add a bottle of any "diesel engine cleaner" to the tank ...
Could very well half those smoke values just like that ...

[nesssalmon]

Ok Thanks thats great. Italian tune up, and diesel engine cleaner it will be.

Is it better to use the 'Engine Cleaner' and 'Italian Tune Up' a day or 2 before retest? or does it need a bit of time to work?

Also would you not go down the EGR valve road? Do you happen to know if I have one on this engine?

Many Thanks again for you help

Cheers
Rob

[AndersDK]

If the EGR valve is fitted, it is certainly an advantage to do the Italian tune up with that device de-activated - usually a simple vacuum hose to disconnect.
I'm unsure if your national British MOT does any testing to the EGR system fitted, better check it out before disconnecting, as then you are just moving the problem.

The EGR is rather easy to recognise. It will be a clumpsy thermostat look-alike connected between inlet and exhaust manifolds, with a vacuum actuator pod fitted.
The vacuum may again be controlled by mechanical or electric controlled valves.
If fitted, the engine will no doubt benefit from de-activating this infamous bad engineered device, as it does cause lots of sooth build up in the cylinder head and valves.