IMRCs close before reaching 3000 RPM

[WINDED]

Well finally I think I have the answer. I had the codes read and came up with P1537. This is the actuator I replaced. Someone in another thread noted a problem he had with the Dorman remanufactured part he got from ROCKAUTO.COM (thats where I got mine). So, I backprobed the signal voltage on the one original unit still on the van and the new one. The original OEM unit had around 7V when activated and around 1V when the vacuum is released. The replacement had around 3V all the time regardless of actuator position. I assume the PCM saw this as IMRC stuck open and after 12 minutes deactivated the solenoid releasing the actuators. I ran through the routine again without the defective actuator plugged up to the PCM and the solenoid stayed activated well past the 12 minute mark. Plugged it back up with the engine still running and after 12 minutes the solenoid deactivated. I guess now I will see what ROCKAUTO will do about this obviously defective part. I did notice that when I took it out of the box the PCM connector was somewhat broken loose from the housing. It is epoxied in the center of the unit and it had broken loose somewhat but didnt look like it would have affected the working of the part and since the bladder was good and held the vacuum I didnt think about it again until today.

Well this has been few days I could have spent differently. I would think this could have been caught by the Ford dealer when they ran the diagnostics on it. I use to be a Ford person but will most likely stay away from them for some time. I bought this van back in 2000 with 70000 miles. Had trouble with the heat and discoverd I was low on coolant and then noticed the oil in the coolant. However, no apparent coolant in the oil and oil level not dropping significantly between oil changes. Went online and read about intake and head problems. Not wanting to put significant money into it I ran Barrs head sealer through it and kept an eye on the coolant level. Do notice black soot on lower quarter panel by tailpipe and what seems to be excessive condensate. Coolant still shows signs of oil in it. Also had to replace rear air temperature switch on console to get the rear air to work. Replaced IAC,coil pack,belt tensioner,stereo and speakers, drivers door ajar switch, plugs and plug wires. I have removed the upper intake and clean out the EGR ports to get rid of misfire. Wife gouged transmisson pan with rebar and replaced that. After this latest problem I am ready to get rid of the van especially with the oil in the coolant still lingering over my head.

I appreciate the help this forum has given me. Being able bounce ideas around and get feedback from people who have more knowledge and experience with the same vehicle is invaluable

[busboy4]

Hi
Glad you tracked it down. I posted about the Rockauto IMRC's. The first one they sent is on its way back, and they will apparently be re-sending another. Unfortunately, now that I read of your problem, I don't want another. My Dorman unit had exactly the same problem, it worked perfectly well from a vacuum standpoint but was incompatible electrically. My voltage readings were almost identical to yours. I guess Ford is the way to go on the actuators.

Rockauto has been terrific. They are covering the return shipping and are taking the part no question. So i'll continue to recommend them, but encourage them to look into the issue with the Dorman valves.

Thanks for the info.

[wiswind]

I found a good price for the Motorcraft ones from this online dealer.....
http://www.trademotion.com/partlocat...?siteid=214072

[WINDED]

Wiswind do you have the ford part number. Mine the right one or the one nearest the radiator. I checked out your link and think I have found it but they are calling it "Mechanical Catalog - 1998 - Ford - Windstar
Fuel system, Fuel induction, Air inlet controls, Control solenoid, CONTROL SOLENOID, Windstar, 3.8L, Right ,$156.65 ". Is this the same thing?

Thanks for the help.

[busboy4]

Originally Posted by WINDED

Wiswind do you have the ford part number. Mine the right one or the one nearest the radiator. I checked out your link and think I have found it but they are calling it "Mechanical Catalog - 1998 - Ford - Windstar
Fuel system, Fuel induction, Air inlet controls, Control solenoid, CONTROL SOLENOID, Windstar, 3.8L, Right ,$156.65 ". Is this the same thing?

Thanks for the help.

Hi

I know you asked Wiswind, but yeah you have the right thing. If at all in doubt, give them a call at Millenium Ford. Ed and the others are very helpful and will make sure you are getting the right part.

By the way, I am calling Rockauto in a couple of minutes to try and stop a re-ship of my Dorman valve. I will be letting them know I spoke with another customer with the same problem. As I said before they have been very good to work with. You should expect them to take your part back and cover the Fedex ground shipping to do so. I'll be ordering a new one from Millenium too.

Best