EGR question
 

I have a 86' 4runner with a 22re motor in it. I have been rebuilding this motor and have came to the egr. I believe it may be permantly closed now because it was severly stoped up and there was no way it was working properly before. I put the compressor on it and no air would pass through it.What good is the EGR any ways??? I have found some Kits to totaly do away with it so it must not be as important as the price they put on a new one makes it seem. A little advice would be very apreciated.