Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, function, and care of your Standard Motor Products VG132 EGR Valve Gasket. Please read these instructions carefully before proceeding with installation to ensure correct application and optimal performance.
Product Overview
The Standard Motor Products VG132 is an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve gasket designed for specific vehicle applications. Its primary function is to create a tight seal between the EGR valve and its mounting surface, preventing exhaust gas leaks and ensuring the EGR system operates efficiently. A properly sealed EGR system is crucial for reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and maintaining engine performance.
Image 1: Packaging for the Standard Motor Products VG132 EGR Valve Gasket. The packaging displays the brand name "STANDARD" and indicates "PROFESSIONAL QUALITY AUTOMOTIVE PARTS".
Installation
Proper installation of the EGR valve gasket is critical for its performance and longevity. It is recommended that installation be performed by a qualified technician.
Required Tools and Materials:
- Appropriate wrenches or sockets for EGR valve removal/installation.
- Gasket scraper or wire brush for cleaning mating surfaces.
- Clean rags or shop towels.
- Safety glasses and gloves.
- Vehicle-specific service manual (recommended).
Installation Steps:
- Safety First: Ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle's battery is disconnected before beginning work.
- Locate EGR Valve: Identify the EGR valve on your vehicle. Consult your vehicle's service manual for exact location and removal procedures.
- Remove Old Gasket: Carefully remove the existing EGR valve and gasket. Dispose of the old gasket properly.
- Clean Mating Surfaces: Thoroughly clean both mating surfaces (on the engine and the EGR valve) to remove any old gasket material, carbon deposits, or debris. A clean surface is essential for a proper seal.
- Position New Gasket: Place the new Standard Motor Products VG132 EGR valve gasket onto the appropriate mating surface. Ensure it is correctly aligned with all bolt holes and passages.
- Reinstall EGR Valve: Reinstall the EGR valve, ensuring it is properly seated against the new gasket.
- Tighten Fasteners: Tighten the EGR valve fasteners according to the torque specifications provided in your vehicle's service manual. Overtightening or undertightening can lead to leaks or damage.
- Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the vehicle's battery.
- Check for Leaks: Start the engine and visually inspect for any exhaust gas leaks around the newly installed gasket. Listen for unusual hissing sounds.
Image 2: The Standard Motor Products VG132 EGR Valve Gasket held in a hand, illustrating its compact size. The image includes a measurement overlay indicating approximately 2.2 inches (5 cm) in height, providing a visual reference for the product's dimensions.
Function
The EGR valve gasket, once installed, forms a critical seal within the Exhaust Gas Recirculation system. The EGR system works by recirculating a small portion of an engine's exhaust gas back into the engine's combustion chambers. This process lowers the combustion temperature, which in turn reduces the formation of harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions.
A properly functioning gasket ensures that the exhaust gases are directed through the EGR valve as intended, without leaking into the atmosphere or other engine compartments. A compromised gasket can lead to exhaust leaks, reduced EGR system efficiency, increased emissions, and potentially trigger a "Check Engine" light.
Maintenance
EGR valve gaskets are generally considered replacement parts and do not require routine maintenance. However, it is advisable to inspect the gasket and surrounding area for signs of wear, cracking, or exhaust leaks whenever other engine maintenance or repairs are performed in the vicinity of the EGR valve. If any signs of degradation or leakage are observed, the gasket should be replaced immediately to maintain optimal engine performance and emissions control.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues after installing or while using your vehicle with the VG132 EGR Valve Gasket, consider the following:
- Exhaust Smell: A persistent smell of exhaust fumes, especially under the hood, may indicate a leak around the EGR valve gasket.
- Hissing Sound: A hissing or puffing sound from the engine bay, particularly when the engine is running, can be a sign of an exhaust leak.
- Check Engine Light: While a gasket itself doesn't directly trigger a check engine light, an exhaust leak caused by a faulty gasket can affect sensor readings (e.g., oxygen sensors) or EGR system performance, leading to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the EGR system or emissions.
- Reduced Engine Performance: Severe exhaust leaks can sometimes lead to a slight reduction in engine power or fuel efficiency, though this is less common for minor gasket leaks.
If any of these symptoms occur, a thorough inspection of the EGR valve and gasket area is recommended. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification and that the mating surfaces were clean during installation. If the gasket is found to be faulty, replace it with a new one.
Specifications
| Model Number: | VG132 |
| Brand: | Standard Motor Products |
| Manufacturer: | Standard Ignition |
| Product Dimensions: | 5.08 x 3.56 x 8.64 cm (2.0 x 1.4 x 3.4 inches) |
| Item Weight: | 45.4 g (0.1 lbs) |
| Country of Origin: | United States |
| UPC: | 707390210612 |
| Fit Type: | Vehicle Specific |
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding the Standard Motor Products VG132 EGR Valve Gasket, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your retailer. Warranty terms typically cover manufacturing defects.
For technical support or further inquiries, please visit the official Standard Motor Products website or contact their customer service department. Always provide the model number (VG132) when seeking support.
