The car threw a code tonight so I checked it. I got the code 32 and 53. Ok, so I read what the codes are but still am not sure what is wrong with it. I have read where having 2 codes means something different than either code. Can someone fill me in on what these 2 codes might mean? What should I check?

Thanks. :rockon:

 

Harley,

Diagnostic Trouble Codes vary from engine to engine. A '32' on one engine may not mean the same as a '32' on a different engine. What engine and fuel system do you have? 350 TPI, TBI, carburetor?

 

Sorry.... It's a 305 TBI

 

Harley,

The '32' on a TBI engine is for an EGR system fault. If you get the code immediately on startup, that can mean that the EGR vacuum solenoid is shorted to ground or the circuit is open (didn't pass the power-up ECM test for I/O). If the code occurs after driving for a while at highway speeds, it can mean the EGR didn't open when the solenoid was energized. This can indiate a failed EGR valve, EGR system vacuum line off, mechanically stuck EGR vacuum solenoid, failing MAP sensor, or other vacuum leal. (I've also had this caused by a defective PCV valve or power brake booster before.)

The code '53' is also for an EGR valve failure on a TBI engine, so the two are definitely related. Inspect the vacuum lines, test the solenoid, and test the EGR valve to see if it will hold vacuum.

After you solve the problem, remember that the ECM will store those error codes for the next 50 engine starts, so you may want to clear the ECM by disconnecting the battery for about five minutes. This is always a good excuse to clean the battery terminals anyway. If you don't want to lose the radio presets you can also find the ECM Power/Fuel Pump fuse and remove it to accomplish the same thing.

Check for error codes again after the repairs to confirm the repair.

 

Actually the problem only happened one time so far. It was while driving up a canyon at 50Mph on cruise control... The light stays off on restart and hasn't come back yet. It used to happen when giving it gas with the ac on. That stopped when I put on an open element and did the exhaust...

 

Harley,

Since they are both EGR codes, and it is only happening during highway cruise, your solenoid is probably good. Check the vacuum lines to make sure, but it is more likely that:

1. The ECM is getting a marginal signal from either the MAP (the way the ECM determines if the EGR opens on a TBI system);

2. The EGR valve is not operating correctly;

3. the EGR valve or passages in the intake mainfold are partially plugged.

If you exhaust all those possibilities (no pun intended) it is possible that the modified exhaust has reduced backpressure enough to affect the EGR valve operation. That will mean experimenting with EGR valve orifaces to get the pressure at the EGR pilot valve into a correct range, so that the valve can open when commanded. You may even end up with a different type of EGR valve to solve the problem if the backpressure is the problem.

 

I have a TPI350 and for about a year and a half I had an EGR Valve Code. I didn't change the valve untill my intake manifold started leaking just recently. It's kind of wierd now not having that orange light anymore, but my point is that you shouldn't worry about it unless you have another reason to tear the plenum off. (ching, 98 cents is your change sir).