C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Engine idle problem.

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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 10:45 AM
  #1  
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Default Engine idle problem.

Hello all:

This is my first posting here as a new member, but I'm sure many of you would like to hear all of my horror stories with the 85 vette I bought in May. They will have to wait as I have a problem that needs solving first.

The car stalls out at stop signs. When it idles, the idle rises and falls every 10 seconds or so. Off the line it feels like it is going to backfire and did once. So: I changed the spark plugs. Put in new high test gas and put in the suggested amount of injector cleaner. Still the same problem. I also stuck a folded $10.00 bill in the gas pedal linkage under the hood to increase the idle in park. Still the same problem only at a higher rev. Any idea what to try next? Thanks. Pat
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 12:10 PM
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Yes, the $10 bill you used is not sufficient for the issue you are having. Try a $20 bill and the higher dollar amount should increase your idle in appropriate increments based on the face value of the bill.
dws
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 12:30 PM
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Check for vacuum leaks and and make sure your fuel pressure is around 42 psi.
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 03:06 PM
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Originally Posted by tehcarguy

Check for vacuum leaks and and make sure your fuel pressure is around 42 psi.
First you should check for codes to see what your ECM is reporting. Additionally, you might want to clean your throttle body and Idle Control Valve. Also, check and reset your throttle position sensor. Let us know what codes you find and how it runs after you complete these cleanings & adjustments.
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 03:09 PM
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Originally Posted by patvette
Hello all:

This is my first posting here as a new member, but I'm sure many of you would like to hear all of my horror stories with the 85 vette I bought in May. They will have to wait as I have a problem that needs solving first.

Pat
Welcome to the Corvette Forum, Pat. Take a few minutes and fill out your user profile as the information you list about your new Vette will help others better understand your needs.
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 03:24 PM
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It definitely sounds like vacuum. My 91 did the same thing when the brake booster collapsed.
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Old Jul 20, 2011 | 03:46 PM
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Originally Posted by navy_vette
It definitely sounds like vacuum. My 91 did the same thing when the brake booster collapsed.
the opportunities for leaks are great and many! lots of stories on this forum. patvette, if you have never checked TPS, cleaned TB (throttle body) send me a PM. Or search the sticky's top of this page, or search threads for keywords, etc.

you can check runner bolts, if you have the simple but necessary tools to reach the trx 40 bolts. several of mine were loose, but no vac lks, also check manifold bolts, same thing. hoses are self explanatory, somewhat, if they are black to the touch or brittle or you see air through them. esp the two to the cruise control.

for all the problems you have, it only gets worse!

next time, use a Franklin under the throttle.
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Old Jul 21, 2011 | 05:03 AM
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One thing I have seen go bad is the check valves that go into your valve covers. The baffles are supposed to keep the oil out, but I have heard of the valve getting stuck and acting as a plug, or actually breaking and causing a leak. I honestly can't tell you what they are for, but take a look at them. Air should only go one direction.
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