"97 Ram Wont Idle

[otec124]

I have a 1997 Dodge Ram 1/2 Ton 318 sometimes when i start it it will only run if i hold down on the gas (1000 RPM or so) I let off the gas and it dies. it does'nt do this everytime and seems to do it more when the engine is cold.

[Austin8214]

Check your battery. if you battery is ok then it could be your TPS or IAC.

[TheRodGod]

Had the same problem.Replaced the IAC ,thought I fixed it.Next day drove about a mile shut my truck off.Tried starting it a few minutes later same thing won't idle.Took it to a friend,left it over night so he could check the engine cold(friend that works at a auto shop).It acted up for him ,he was able to hook it to a computer.All he said he did was clean the throttle plates.Run great ever since.Sounds silly but it worked for me.Hope this helps.
TheRodGod

[otec124]

Thanks for the reply the truck started to work fine. All i did was run some injector cleaner thru it. One question waht is IAC ?

Thanks Again JT

[Austin8214]

Originally Posted by otec124

One question waht is IAC ?

Thanks Again JT

IAC= Idle Air Control.

[Blylock]

its the computer component on the back of the throttle body, above the distributor. 2 torx head screws and you can remove them, spray with cleaner to get all the carbon off of it and it should work fine. do not, and i repeat do not mess with the spring assembly on it, other than spraying cleaner on it. if you need to, gently scrub the metal on the end of the IAC to get the burnt carbon off of it. also remember to clean the port out where the IAC lives.

along these lines, it dosent hurt, and is easy to remove the whole throttle body and clean it, especially the bores where the throttle plates are. use a soft rag, or really soft toothbrush to get in there, but never use anything that scratches like sandpaper or metal bristle brushes. whole process takes maybe an hour from removal to reintall.