I've been experiencing rough idle and stall-at-idle issues with my '01 Tribute and believe I narrowed the problem down to the EGR valve. From reading a Chilton's manual and a little online research, I suspected the valve might be stuck in an open position. So, my next "scientific" thought was to bang on it while the engine was idling (or trying to idle) to see if I could un-stick it. Lo and behold, after a few light taps to the valve body, I heard a click followed by a sucking noise, followed by the engine roaring up to a very nice, smooth idle. I stopped and started the engine a few times, and everything appears to be working well now.

- Has anyone else experienced this problem?
- If so, what did you do to fix it?
- Do I need to replace the EGR valve, or is there some way I could clean it? I'm guessing carbon/gunk buildup caused the valve to stick open?

I appreciate any advice on this, thanks!