Hi guys

I've had the EGR soft deleted on my 2012 4.4 TDV8 and wanted to install a blanking plate as it was still open about 4% according to the GAP IID tool.

I managed to drop the plate and initially could just about see it resting on top of the EGR cooler engine coolant inlet hose, based on this image

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The glow-plugs are down there but the wiring is covered so the plate shouldn't be able to cause a short circuit.
Are you using a 6-point socket for the bolt head? L405 D350 SE Carpathian Grey D5 19" rims

I am. I believe it should be the same size as the one that I used to loosen the bolts on the EGR outlet pipe where the blanking plate would be installed?

Now that's it's a bit darker out I was able to just about see it sat pretty much directly under the point where the EGR engine coolant inlet hose terminates. I tried to direct it out but it just moved it further underneath again.

My concern is that it's very likely to move if I drive the car so I would lose track of it. I would assume that there is also a risk of it coming out and then moving forward, which could then result in it ending up in one of the belts or the fan.

In terms of accessing that area, am I right in thinking that removing the inlet donut would be best? I'm hesitant because I don't want to disturb anything else and cause further issues if there is a simpler way to access that area

Ordered one of these inspection cameras with a hook attachment from Amazon for same day delivery.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0CZHT2VHS

After about an hour of the most intense game of hook a duck I've ever played, it's out!

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 2018 SE SDV8 4.4 Byron Blue

After all that, did you try installing it again??

I did indeed, just with a bit more caution this time.

In case anyone reads this and has similarly little experience as me, then I recommend fully removing the left bolt and half undoing the right. That will give enough room to slide the plate in and you can hook it over the right bolt before putting the left bolt back once the plate is lined up. Really not a tricky job at all.

Definitely noticed a difference in the car with it installed. With just the soft delete it still felt improved, but really feels effortlessly powerful and much more responsive now.