Resetting computer..check engine light..how long to cycle

[Eclipse1178]

Hey all,

I had my check engine light come on last week on my 96 Ranger. The code came back showing it was my EGR valve. I took it off and checked everything and cleaned it. I unhooked my negative cable on my battery to reset the computer. I have to get this thing to marta so I can get new tags. Any idea how long(miles) I have to run so this thing is cycled so I know if this fixed it before I can take it to marta?

Thanks

 

[BeefStew42791]

actually, if I were you I'd start it - let it run for 15 minutes - shut it off, and repeat 3 or 4 times. Then I'd drive it. I say that because every first start after I've left my truck disconnected from the battery for a while its ran rough and shook like hell, but then for the second and third starts, everything was perfect.

 

[Yellowsplash]

OBD I is alittle more forgiving than OBDII. On a 96 (OBDII) the code will be kept in memory for a certain number of starts and/or drive cycles. It will go away after a while, but will still be kept in memory for longer. Its better that next time you scan it to erase it. Most scan tools have the ability to erase memory. Disconnecting the battery will lose all other information such as fuel trims and can cause the vehicle to run poorly until the ecu's relearns everything.

Also, If you got an EGR flow insufficient code, 99% of the time its the DPFE (pressure feedback sensor), not the EGR valve itself.