Basic P1518 IMRC Questions - 1999 Windstar

My 1999 Windstar is showing code P1518 - IMRC stuck open.
Searching this forum, I've learned about common IMRC problems, 1999 being the first year with the electric IMRC (not vaccum actuated), the common problem with the plastic/nylon bushings, etc...

Is replacing the electric IMRC an easy, DIY job? Does it require removing the intake manifold? or is it a part mounted on the intake manifold?

I have not seen any photos of the IMRC on 1999 or newer 3.8L engines, so I'm not sure what the job entails.

Thank you.

The black-plastic-box IMRC actuator is very close to/just behind the alternator. There is a electric connector on top of it. And two wire links kinda behind. The 2 links have a total of 4 retainers on their ends ... these are usually the problem.

Two of the retainers are fairly easy to reach ... but two almost definitely require removing the actuator itself. Three mounting screws against the lower intake manifold.

Thank you for your prompt and helpful response.

I located the IMRC actuator device near the alternator and noticed that both rods, the one going back and the one going forward, were disengaged from their holes with no sign of any white plastic clip or bushing. Both metal "hole pieces" seem to rotate freely with what ever is inside the intake manifold. I reinserted both rod ends into the holes, but without the clips they likely will come out again soon.

I can not tell the condition of the rod ends or clips where they attach to the actuator motor as that area is hard to see. Also, I only see 2 bolts attaching the actuator motor unit, not 3.

Do you think it is likely that simply replacing the plastic clips to secure the rod ends is all I need to do to clear fault P1518, or do you recommend I replace the entire IMRC actuator unit? It does seeem challenging replacing this unit given the tight quarters near the alternator - need smaller hands!

Thanks again.

I would use a mirrow and locate the third bolt ... or where it should be. Using a small mirrow, you can likely see the inside ends of the links ...are the retainers missing there also? If so, you might as well plan to remove the actuator to access the "crank". The actuator itself should be just fine ... no need to replace it. But I would go ahead and purchase 4 of the retainers before starting ...

The retainers are pressed into the holes ... and then the link-ends pressed into the retainers. Best to have all 3 mounting screws loose, 'til you get all the linkages in place.

Thank you.

I have ordered the plastic retainers and will give it a go when they arrive.

Here is a picture of the IMRC
http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2978416450103248450sGENLX

This is taken from the block view of course. I hope you ordered 4 of the clips as they'll all need to be replaced. To replace it, remove the IMRC, install the 4 plastic clips in the 4 respective holes, push the control arms into the IMRC as in the photo. Carefully install the IMRC attaching all 3 bolts loosly. Push the runner arms into the clips already installed on the block. Once all attached, tighten the 3 bolts which are 8 mm on my van fwiw.

Piper

Thanks Piper - especially for the photo; very helpful.

Yes, I ordered enough retainer clips.

Thanks Piper - especially for the photo; very helpful.

Yes, I ordered enough retainer clips.

Ive used the Metal Round C-clips before which I think is a better hold then those plastic jigs. I dont know what size or number tho. They snaped on and spun but dont melt or get brittle over time.

Update:

Success! I loosened the IMRC assembly (3 bolts) and determined that the rod end retainers at the IMRC black box end were intact, so I only had to replace the missing white plastic retainers at the intake manifold end of both rods.

The front one was relatively easy, but the rear one was tough to reach. I ended up employing the smaller hands of my 12 year old son to get at it - which I'm happy to say he did.

I recommend this tip:

I tethered the new white plastic retainer to a nearby harness or hose using a long loop of fishing line. This came in handy the several times that the plastic part was dropped into the engine - just pulled it back up! I think I would have lost a few retainers if I had not done this. Once the new retainer was installed in the square hole, I cut the fishing line and gently pulled it out.

I appreciate everyone's help on this.
Now I have to replace a failed rear wiper motor!

Always something with this lemon of a van!