idles in park at 800 idles in gear low

1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD
130,000 MILES
Avatar
RIC006
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
the car idles great in park or neutral but when in gear drops down to about 300 and sometimes as low as 10 not kidding 10 and it dont sound like its running but most times its at around 500 rpms checked spark plugs, wire coils fuel injectors changed o2 sensors replaced valve cover gaskets, checked for a vacum leak i have an error code P0420 now due to this issue but i dont want to put my new cats on untill prob is fixed
May 23, 2012 at 2:55 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Check the exhaust if its clogged and also clean the idle air control valve and MAF sensor-
May 23, 2012 at 3:08 AM
Avatar
RIC006
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yeah i checked the exhuast at a muffler shop says its still clear and i cleaned the IAC last week and sprayed card cleaner in the mas
May 23, 2012 at 3:39 AM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You don't use no carb cleaner on the MAF sensor-you probably ruined it-use an electronic cleaner such as the CRC
May 23, 2012 at 3:52 AM
Avatar
RIC006
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
its three wires to clean and been told by many mechanics to use it i will retract my donation thanks for your time
May 23, 2012 at 3:55 AM
Avatar
THIS IS MIKE
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 686 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
We have refunded your donation. We are sorry we were not able to help you this time. Good luck with your repair.
May 23, 2012 at 6:49 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.