trouble code p0401

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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:28 PM
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Unhappy trouble code p0401

got code light on and pull code po401 saying EGR insuffection airflow can someon tell how to sole the issue tks redtoy02
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:29 PM
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Originally Posted by redtoy02
got code light on and pull code po401 saying EGR insuffection airflow can someon tell how to sole the issue tks redtoy02
Have you ever replaced the DPFE? If not it is just about for sure that would be the problem.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:33 PM
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po401

what is dpfe ???????
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:40 PM
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:41 PM
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Originally Posted by redtoy02
what is dpfe ???????
Differential Pressure Feedback transducer, if that helps. It measures the amount of EGR flow. It is a very common failure on ford vehicles.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:44 PM
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po401

is that part expencive and how hard is it to replace
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:47 PM
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Originally Posted by redtoy02
is that part expencive and how hard is it to replace
Less than $100, and it is easy to replace, two bolts hold it on, has a connector that plugs into it and two vacuum lines. It is the main focus in the pic from jbrew.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2008 | 11:50 PM
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po401

is there a way to check the system to to see if it is the problem
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 12:08 AM
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Originally Posted by redtoy02
is there a way to check the system to to see if it is the problem
You will need a volt meter, and with the key on, and engine off check to see how much voltage is at the DPFE, if it is between 4 and 6 volts, you need a new one.
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 06:03 AM
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Also check the two hoses going to the sensor, very common for those to burn through as well and cause a low flow condition.
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 11:39 AM
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po401

are we talking about the rubber lines or the small color vac lines on top of the pic
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 12:09 PM
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Originally Posted by redtoy02
are we talking about the rubber lines or the small color vac lines on top of the pic
Rubber lines
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 02:59 PM
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Not sure what year, size engine or # miles you have but can tell you that I like many on this forum have had same code. I got about 4 months ago. Replaced DPFE and EGR Valve. Finally got up courage to take apart and clean Throttle Body and Elbow (dealer called it Thottle Body Spacer). Anyhow, there are two EGR ports inside the elbow. Both were jam packed clogged. Cleaned with can of TB cleaner and various tools (everything from screw driver to coat hanger). Even used brass brushes from gun cleaning kit. Have not had code since. I am not sure I even needed the DPFE or EGR. I should have cleaned the TB first. Know better now and will be making a good TB cleaning part of my yearly maintenance routine. A couple of gaskets ($10), one can of TB Cleaner ($5) and a couple of hours.

PS - best tip that I read that will follow next time is to put some towels below where working and over maze of intake tubes. Some day I will probably get back the socket that fell down in there.

Good luck.
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 07:55 PM
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That's a good fix there too Rail...depending on the year and the elbow....typically we see a driveability issue when they do get clogged up but not always. You can take a hand held vacuum pump and apply vac to the EGR valve. If the engine does not start to stumble then chances are the ports are clogged.
 
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Old Feb 25, 2008 | 08:40 PM
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First of all , post your vehicle model year and engine size. The F150 has 3 variations of DPFE sensors. There isn't a dealership around this area that wants less than $100 for this sensor. Ford has updated this sensor recently. For some time the updated sensor could only be obtained from Ford. Third party auto supplier DPFE sensors had short lifespans. If you have the Aluminum type DPFE - TOMCO carries a good replacement @ a cheaper price. If you have one of two plastic variations, I would purchase those at the dealership only.

As said , check the two hoses - burning problems frequently happened in the 4.0's. Unless you have a plugged CAT , I doubt you have that problem. Check them anyway.

I would suggest cleaning the Plenum ports. Specially if you have the 4.6L and are around 75,000 miles. You don't need to purchase a vac device to test the EGR poppet valve, although it may be easier to test. Start your vehicle, while @ idle disconnect the green vac line from the EGR valve. Find a piece of hose about 3' long that you can plug into the EGR valve in place of the green line. While your Vehicle is still at idle , suck on the hose like you were drinking a milkshake. Does your idle change? does it want to stall? If so , then the EGR valve is good . If there is no deflection or change in idle speed your EGR valve needs to be replaced.. This tests the valve operation and diaphragm. Usually a problem in this area will generate a PO402 fault instead of a 401.

I also suggest searching this forum for past posts on this problem. There's better replies , posted pics and resolves on this issue.

BTW - If you have the 02 model (guessing from your user name) - I believe you have this model of DPFE sensor, you'll want to check to be sure -



Post your info , welcome to f150online and Good Luck
 

Last edited by jbrew; Feb 25, 2008 at 08:48 PM.
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