even with the detailed procedure described to check the valve (put a vaccuum to it and see if the engine sputters-or RPM drops))it doesn't show the valve itself and Bentley is no clearer- any pics or exact locations of the EGR valve??

Also- do I need a special tool to do the vacuum thing?? can I just (I hesitate to say this) suck the tube to the valve??

Finally- if I have to clear that passager in the manifold- can I have some encouragement?? is it a total bear?? should I check other things first??
I don't remember the code exactly but it was about flow to the egr...
Thanks

The EGR valve is the right rear (as you look in the engine bay) under the cover. Just check the hoses leading everywhere first. I had a hose come off and the engine light was on instantly. I looked around and found the vacuum line was off. Once I replaced it with a better line no problems. Mine was an easy fix!

For me, the "EGR vacuum regulator solenoid valve" was sticky, and would not pass any vacuum to the EGR valve. I cycled it a few times (using a small 12v battery), and it has worked fine since (knock on wood).

12v.org has some useful diagrams on where stuff is, and what it looks like.

EGR location:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/6607/rear.jpg" />

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/6607/vacuumhose.jpg" />

Inside of intake manifold; the part you need to clean out (if you have to at all):

<img src="http://www.lightworksmediagroup.com/images/petes/urs4/intake30.jpg" />

What to use to <a href="http://www.lightworksmediagroup.com/images/petes/urs4/DIYpolishingSticks.html">clean</a> it with (after using FLEX HONES - pricey but they DEFINITELY polish something like this up):

b<img src="http://www.lightworksmediagroup.com/images/petes/urs4/intake36.jpg" />