P0401 - dpfe

[99 Ivan]

Hi, I have a 99 B4000 (Ranger) 4.0, 177K that is throwing the apparently famous P0401 code. I have checked all the vacuum lines for breaks and cleaned them out with Mass Air Cleaner spray. I know most are not fans of just replacing stuff but I don't have a vacuum pump but from what I have read the DPFE is the common replacement.
Before I take the throttle body off and look for carbon build up I figured I'd try to replace the DPFE for 20 bucks. I have the original metal one, any thoughts on aftermarkets for 20 bucks vs the OEM for 60 or 70?
I can physically blow into the ERG and hear it engage, I assume its ok.. I know, assume.. if I were to remove the EGR, can I clean it or is it just a swap?

Yes, I have read just about all the old posts, and thank you very much in advance! Ivan

 

[adsm08]

I would replace the DPFE in this situation. The metal ones were a problem and superseded by the plastic ones. If you still have a metal one on there that alone is enough reason to replace it.

However if you have an Advance near you I know they have vacuum pumps in their loaner tool selection. Autozone might too, but I don't deal with them so I don't know what they have.

 

[99 Ivan]

Thanks for the reply

After market OK or spend the money on the OEM?
Also, any secret sauce to taking off the throttle body and cleaning it?
I've looked on YouTube and here but no how too on the 4.0 that I have found..

Could the DPFE also be the cause of my low steady speed 'chugging'?