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Not having your EGR connected can cause higher combustion temperatures and detonation (spark knock). The EGR puts exhaust fumes back into the combustion mixture at cruise to slow combustion slightly by starving the mixture of some oxygen. Does the control solenoid work correctly? I've had a situation on my Q45 where the electrical connections on the EGR solenoid were corroded so the valve didn't work correctly.
We also had a mid 90s Chevy S-10 for a short while that had a surge that was related to the EGR valve. We replaced the control solenoid first (cheaper and easier to reach) and then the EGR valve, and that fixed it.
Your inclination not to run the truck without the EGR valve is correct - you can damage your engine!
I'd replace the control solenoid, and also remove the valve and make sure the plenum isn't clogged with carbon build up in the EGR passage...
Is your truck a 4cyl or 6cyl? How many miles on your truck?
Heath
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1997 Nissan XE Truck - 133,000 Miles
1990 Infiniti Q45 - 91,000 Miles
2005 Infiniti G35 Sedan - 34,000 Miles
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