Idle too low

EXPOS4

MEMBER
CHEVROLET SUBURBAN

My 2001 5.3L Chevy Suburban has about 92,000 miles and runs great. While I am driving at highway speed. It idles too low and lopes between 300 and 500 RPM. This problem affects the AC as well. It won't blow cold until I accelerate to above 700 RPM. There is no hesitation when I accelerate. The only other problem I encounter due to the low idle is on turns. Occasionally the Burb stalls in a turn. Which could be a serious problem if I were in heavy traffic. Otherwise, a great running vehicle. Any suggestions? ?

1 Reply

EXPOS4

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Well, after pouring through many auto repair forums last night, I made a list of possible fixes. I then decided to approach my problem with the simplest repair attempt first. I removed the air intake housing, exposing the butterfly (throttle) valve. I held the flap open with one hand while I cleaned the inside with carb cleaner and a clean rag. I wiped everything I could get to. I started the Suburban and she idled as smooth as a baby's bottom. I guess it's idling around 600 or so RPM. The AC blows cold and the burb no longer lopes while idling. Amazingly simple and extremely inexpensive fix! If you are experiencing similar problems, I would urge you to try this first. :D