Monday, February 24, 2014

"Free" Idle Stall / Surge Fix

Fixed the issue with the Bronco starting to stall and die in idle especially when the engine wasn't warmed up.  My Bronco is an '88 with EFI 351w.

Symptoms:  Engine would stall while in gear at idle.  Applying throttle would help.  Sometimes you had to apply gas when putting it in gear and it would start to die and then surge.  In park the RPM gauge would bobble about 100-200 rpm.

Solution: Removed the Idle Air Control and clean it.  The IAC is located on the driver's side follow the hose from the air box to the throttle body and its on the side.  It is held on by two bolts and has a single electrical connection.

When removed you can clean out the carbon deposits (black stuff) by using throttle body cleaner.  I would also use electric contact cleaner to clean out the electrical connection.  Spray the cleaner until the liquid  runs clear.  You might use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to really clean the spring off.

I re-installed and my idle issues were resolved.  Stay tuned for more maintenance things.  I'm going to be working on the fuel system, ignition system, and getting some of the gauges to start working again.

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