effects of a bad EBP Sensor

[ckraker]

I posed a couple of days ago in the general discussion forum but thing quickly became less general and way more technical. So now I'm here and I even attached a picture, because I know that is what everyone likes.
I have a 2001 7.3 with 222,222 miles on it. (and yes I took a pic of the speedometer when that actually happened.)

Today I took my EBP tube and sensor off (see pic) It was just about as plugged as you can possible get, both the tube and the Sensor. In fact it took 120 PSI of pressure just to blow the plug out of the line.

Question time. What exactly does that sensor do? I know it measures back pressure, but what does the pcm do with that info? Reason I ask is because I never had a code or Service engine light come on even with it plugged. Now that I have it all clear, How am I supposed to tell if it is working? The engine runs the same.
Thanks- I'll post the odometer pics if anyone wants to see

[ttyR2]

The PCM uses the EBP sensor to check how much back pressure is in the exhaust manifold and adjust the EBPV accordingly so the engine runs acceptably while the valve is in operation.

[big.elk.hunter]

could a plugged EBP sensor or tube cause the engine to run sporatic, or surge while driving under acceleration?? I am having issues with my truck doing that. thanks.

chris