1998 Mercury Tracer Idle Issues....

1998 MERCURY TRACER
153,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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CSR0831
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Greetings.....Great site!

My Tracer is not missing at idle, but rather has a ..."course", idle for lack of a better word. I think the idle speed is correct (or there abouts), but have not checked it. I have cleaned the MAS and the IAC valve and verified they are operating properly. There are not vacum leaks that I can find (visual or audio). I understand this is a fairly common problem with these cars and have read that it can be solved (or the majaroty of it can), by either new moter and transmission mounts, or by "recentering" the existing ones if they are in good condition. Concur? Thanks for you help!
Dec 26, 2013 at 7:50 AM
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JDL
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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If the engine/transaxle mounts are bad, by all means, replace them.

You could use a vacuum guage to check engine vacuum. If the needle is bouncing all over the place, I don't think replacing the motor- mounts will fix that. Just my opinion.
Dec 26, 2013 at 9:15 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I've done hundreds of front engine mounts on these for excess engine vibration that is felt in the car,if that is in fact what you are talking about.
Dec 26, 2013 at 9:32 PM
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CSR0831
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Yes, the excess vibration is indeed what I am talking about. Is it necessary to replace ALL the mounts (although I suppose that is a good idea), or just certian ones and are they particularly difficult to replace? Thank you!!
Dec 27, 2013 at 6:24 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You can start with the front as it is the most common failed part but it wouldn't hurt to r replace them all due to age and wear
Jan 3, 2014 at 11:10 AM
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