IMCR problem code 1538

[mrstg65]

Hello,

1998 Windstar GL 3.8 litre 118000 miles

I was getting codes 1537 and 1538. The firewall IMCR control valve was faulty, and I replaced it. Now both valves close when the engine starts and remain that way until around 2900 RPM. From what I understand thanks to the posts on this forum, this is normal. This morning the battery was dead and a jumpstart was needed. Now the SES light is on and it registers code 1538 only. All of the monitors are still set except the EVAP, so I guess the battery was not totally dead, but I do not understand why it is throwing out the code when both valves still open and close when they are supposed to. It also seems like the EVAP monitor should have reset by now, as I erased the old codes almost 500 miles ago. I am trying to prepare for NJ state inspection at the end of this month. As always, all thoughts are appreciated.

Steve

[mrstg65]

Well here is the answer to this if anyone is interested. The other IMRC actuator has a slight vacuum leak that is causing the valve to close only half way. Since enough vacuum remains to fully close the new firewall actuator, only code 1538 registers. This will get worse until both valves are stuck open again. I don't know why these actuators have to be so expensive. The front actuator tested OK when I changed the firewall actuator three weeks ago, so this is a new failure. Anyone know if there is a way to repair these things??

[Freakzilla69]

Originally Posted by mrstg65

Well here is the answer to this if anyone is interested. The other IMRC actuator has a slight vacuum leak that is causing the valve to close only half way. Since enough vacuum remains to fully close the new firewall actuator, only code 1538 registers. This will get worse until both valves are stuck open again. I don't know why these actuators have to be so expensive. The front actuator tested OK when I changed the firewall actuator three weeks ago, so this is a new failure. Anyone know if there is a way to repair these things??

I saw a post, here somewhere I think, where a guy took one apart and patched the diaphram with rubber cement or something like that.

I recently replaced both of mine (98 3.8L GL). You're lucky that's the only code you have. I'm ready to push this POS of a cliff.