1999 Intake Manifold Runner Stuck (Bank1) (Bank2)

I have a 1999 3.8L Windstar. The check engine light came ON and I tested at Advance. Got 3 codes --> DTC P0171 (System Too lean Bank1), DTC P0174 (System too lean Bank 2) and P1519 (Intake Manifold Runner Stuck Closed).

I got a new IMRC (Intake Manifold Runner Control) part from Ford Dealer, but not really sure, if changing that part would solve the problem.

Unlike the older models which have 2 IMRC's one for left and the other for right, there is only 1 IMRC in the 99 model The IMRC has 2 rods coming out, which connect to some small moveable parts coming out from the engine. Can someone suggest me what to do???

On the IMRC. Before changing the actuator, look to make sure the plastic bushings ( Ford calls them "retainers") are in place on the ends of the links. These bushings are bad about breaking and jamming up the linkage. Ford will be glad to sell you a bag of 4 for $20.

Yes I checked them and they were bad. I got the new ones. Would the plastic bushings cause that error code to be generated? I put the new bushings and disconnected the battery for 30 seconds, but the code still exists.

On the IMRC. Before changing the actuator, look to make sure the plastic bushings ( Ford calls them "retainers") are in place on the ends of the links. These bushings are bad about breaking and jamming up the linkage. Ford will be glad to sell you a bag of 4 for $20.

The bushings can definitely cause the code.

Does the IMRC actuator "actuate"? It should move at engine start-up ... again at about 2600rpm.

Since you have the new controller, you could just hook it up electrically... but just lay it some safe place under the hood and see if it makes that code go away. I think this should work as a test. I don't believe the PCM will know it's not installed.... don't see how it could.

It could be that when the bushings jammed the linkage -- the motor was burned up.

I think you have the dreaded intake manifold isolator bolt seals leakage and oil infiltration into the intake via the pcv line. On my 2000 the IMRC controls were casualities of jammed IMRCs due to oil and "crud" contamnation stemming from the poor design vavle cover and PCV system (see other notes about the service bulletin that addresses this).

I say that because you also have the codes 171/174.

Check the IMRC linkages for freedom of movement with your hand before installing new controllers.

My OLD controller has a good freedom of movement. I compared with the new one and they move exactly the same. So, would replacing the IMRC motor, take care of this problem?

Another question... what are the symptoms of a bad IMRC apart from check engine light? How does a bad IMRC affect normal driving?

My OLD controller has a good freedom of movement. I compared with the new one and they move exactly the same. So, would replacing the IMRC motor, take care of this problem?

I seem to have the same problem on my 99 Windstar. I got the code to replace my IMRC actuator. But want to make sure that is the anwser. If it's just the plastic retainers it would be a lot cheaper fix.

I seem to have the same problem on my 99 Windstar. I got the code to replace my IMRC actuator. But want to make sure that is the anwser. If it's just the plastic retainers it would be a lot cheaper fix.

Welcome tot he forum!

Inspecting the IMRC bushings is an easy task. Take a look at the engine and there should be a black box on the passenger side under the intake manifold; that's the IMRC actuator.

Attached to it there should be two linkages running to the front and rear of the engine and a couple of inches you'll see where these linkages should be attached on the engine just below the upper intake manifold.

It the problem are the bushings you can get a set at most autoparts stores under the Dorman brand with a HELP! logo. I don't know about linkages (which can get lost on the road) maybe they have them too or at least can order them.

The sypmtom of a bad IMRC actuator or disconnected linkages are a rough running when overtaking other cars or going uphill.

Oscar.