Is it the idle control valve?
 

I have done my search and I think it is the idle control valve...

My 85 3.2 has a perfect idle with the expection of on two occassions when in heavy traffic the idle began to pulse between 800 and 1500 when I would stop.

As I sat in traffic and the engine temp rose to the 10 o'clock mark, the idle pulsed and then as traffic broke, and engine temp returned to normal, the problem went away. Have no issues on start up, when cold, etc; only in the described above scenario.

In searching archives, seems that idle control valve is likley culprit. If so, is replacing the unit the only solution or can it be "cleaned".

Thanks
Chris

It can be cleaned. Take it off, easy to do, and spray it out with some brake cleaner. Make sure you install it in the same position you took it out.

I'm concerned about your engine temp rising to the 10 o'clock level....

Please explain....

I have a spare ICV if you want to diagnose your idle issue

I would think a bad ICV would show up at start-up as well. It sounds like the engine temp rise is affecting something else that is not quite right. This could be one of the sensors (CHT?) that might indirectly control the (possibly good) ISV. It could also be a vacuum leak, manifold leak, or other that occurs because of the elevated temp. The first thing I look for with an irratic idle is a vacuum leak, it's not always easy to find, but it's usually a cheap fix. I'm guessing now so I'll step aside and let the experts chime in. But I agree with "kqw" the temp rise is a concern.

Good Luck
Andrew

Is your head temp sensor still the original single wire style?

Joe