JFS0650

Hi all, I have a '98 TL V6 3.2 and I need some help understanding the EGR system. Please advise and thanks.

The EGR code is throwing, but it's only been a year since a new valve was put on and the passages were cleaned. I took it off, and the valve is opening and closing just fine when I suck it by mouth (yeah I actually said that.)

Is the solenoid on TOP of the EGR valve itself? If so, does that not mean that the single vacuum line going to the EGR valve should ALWAYS be pulling a vacuum? Or is the electronic part on top of the valve itself something else?

I could never get a vacuum to pull from the hose, which makes me wonder if it is clogged in the vacuum line somehow.

THANKS -- Really don't want to have to visit the shop because they always want to just replace the valve first!