EGR test light control

Following along chapter 3 output solenoids I'm attempting to energize my EGR valve in a 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. However when I put my test light to the positive control wire nothing seems to be happening though I do hear a click. On my scan tool when the car is on but not running I can see the valve position slightly respond. It may rest at 1.20,volts and when I apply my test light I can see the position signal jump to 1.50. shouldn't the signal jump to nearly five volts? Engine running when I try to energize it nothing is happening the engine is not bugging down or anything. In gear the EGR valve responds appropriately on scan tool

I'm using an incandescent test light by the way.

Am i missing something?

Hey Donnyten! The problem is that the test light won't carry enough current to fully energize the solenoid in the EGR valve. Paul measured it with an ammeter in one of his videos, came out around 1A I believe.

Anyway, that's why you're only seeing a marginal increase in EGR position when you apply the test light. Try a fused jumper (or your DVOM in the amp mode) and see how the valve responds. Verify correct polarity before jumping, of course.

Tyler wrote:

Hey Donnyten! The problem is that the test light won't carry enough current to fully energize the solenoid in the EGR valve. Paul measured it with an ammeter in one of his videos, came out around 1A I believe.

Here's the video Tyler mentioned

Thanks, Dylan! Actually, I was thinking of this one, but that's a good reference too.

Thank you thank you thank you yall. Very informative

Awesome guys! Thank you!
I'll add one more thing. The reason it did not react at all with the engine running is that manifold vacuum is now pulling on the closed side of the EGR pintle. So the already weak magnetic field you created (not enough current from your test light) cannot lift the valve off its seat with the addition of manifold vacuum.
Hope that made sense

can also do bidrectiona ltst egr with scanner