96 Honda Accord P0401 code

I have a 96 Accord w/190000 miles. I have been getting a P0401 code and can't shake it. I have cleaned the EGR valve twice, checked its movement w/ a vac pump(it holds vacuum) and checked the vacuum solenoid operation. Is my next step to clean ports on the intake? If so, what does bad look like? When I took off the EGR valve there just appeared to be some surface scale but not plugged by anymeans. I would like some feedback if anyone has any.

is it a v6 or 4cyl? if a v6 then you have to remove the upper intake and clean it that way. on a 4cyl there are two designs the easy one involves removing the injectors and then there is a plate the length of the intake under the injectors remove that and then clean all the carbon out. the other design involves drilling out plugs in the intake and cleaning then reinstalling new plugs alot more involved. i am not sure what years are the break for each design.

I have the 4cyl Vtec engine, thanks for responding. What is the best tool to use the get the carbon out? Do I need to make one? Wire brush, pick, etc. Also to the best of my knowlebge it has the original Cat converter. Would that cause this?

Jason

No the cat would not cause this code. The Vtec motor should have the plate. You should see it under the injectors. It will have a row of 10mm screws. Just remove it and scrape the carbon away. Also on the intake under this plate there will be a hole in each runner be sure you clean them too. Once you start scraping you should see what I am talking about. I use a pick and or a screwdriver.

Thanks for the help! That was exactly what was going on. Three of the four ports in the intake were plugged. The plate was dirty also but it was obvious what was plugged when I got it opened up. It scrapped out pretty easy with a small screwdriver and a shop vac.

Jason