Super Erratic Idle

[wheatdog]

I've got my 3.2 engine for sale and decided to drive it to work one more time to make sure all was well before turning it over to a new owner. After starting, the idle was searching badly. It would almost stall then rev to 1000-1200 up an down, up and down etc. It got a little better after warming up but would still drop to super low idle and almost stall when coming to a stop. It is also running rich now. When you rev the engine it has a visable exhaust and you can smell it. Never did that before. The idle air control motor is running. Which sensor crapped out??

Mike

[jester911]

MIke,
what have you done lately to the car. I assume plugs, wires ,
rotor are all good. If it is not electrical maybe it is a vacuum issue.

[scottb]

Originally posted by wheatdog
It is also running rich now.

Mixture will affect your idle. Has the O-2 sensor ever been replaced?

Take the car to your mechanic and have him adjust the mixture. You'll be good to go.

[Nine9six]

Do a search on "Idle hunting". I posted the question a week ago. Plenty of info in this thread.
Cheers,
Paul

[wheatdog]

Thanks guys. I found the extensive post on this subject a few lines down.

[rcaradimos]

Check the cylinder head temp sensor, should be new updated one, if not the age of the old one is most likley starting to fail.

[Shuie]

bump

[Shuie]

bumping.....

Anyone? Im trying to buy this motor. 3.2 guys, please help!

okay, adding some search results. Hope this helps

Please note: Setting the idle is one step and if the issue is not solved, then go to next steps like the vacuum, ICV cleaning, CHT checking, manifold bolts, manifold boot, breather restrictor valve, pressure valves, injectors, valve clearance, etc.

To set your idle:

On the drivers side of the engine compartment you have a black plastic cover.

Take it off and you'll see a black plug with 5 female sockets.

Start your car and bring it up to operating temp.

The black plug with the 5 sockets located at 9, 11, 2, 3 and 6 o'clock.

You jump (bridge) a jack (jumper wire) between 2 and 6 o'clock.

Set your idle from the throttle housing screw.

Idle hunting?

Check the ICV...With the engine off, turn the key to the on position. You should hear/feel the ICV buzzing. (good thing)

Take the ICV out and clean it with carb cleaner. The innards of the valve should turn freely. You'll see what I mean once you take it off.

When was the last time the 02 sensor was replaced? Over 30K miles ago?

Run some techron injection cleaner through a tank of gas.

Torque the manifold bolts, all 12 of them to 18 ft/lbs.

Check all the hoses and vac. lines for possible leaks.

Re-set your idle.

My thoughts are: When the car is experiencing a STEADY and significant up and down idle, it's likely the ICV.

idle hunts around...
3.2 Fast Idle Frustrating Problem!
3.2 Idle Problem

[ghnat]

Is it still not resolved?