2004 Ford Mustang IMRC problems?

Question

I have a friend with a 2004 Ford Mustang 3.8L that has a manifold port flap/butterfly that is stuck open. What would be the best solution, besides replacing the whole manifold, to get this fixed. I personally recommended trying to force a high amount of air pressure through the manifold and also to replace the gaskets. Would this be a good idea? Im no mechanic, but I do have some knowledge of engines, so I thought this may be a good idea. Any thoughts?

Answer 1

I am guessing he is getting a code for a stuck IMRC which is turning on the check engine light.

I wouldn't suggest using compressed air to try to "free" the IMRC butterfly. But I would strongly suggest removing the upper intake before trying to repair it. The upper intake is easy to remove and it beats the bejeepers out of accidentally dropping something down into the intake system.

Most IMRC's are vacuum controlled. I would make certain none of the vacuum hoses going to it are split. They aren't always easy to see. I would also make sure none of the linkages from the Servo to the IMRC butterfly controls are bent or have fallen off. This does happen. If it all does look Kosher, I would remove the upper intake and look inside to see if the butterfly is being held open by varnish or sludge. If it is, then you can clean it up real nice and make sure it moves freely.

Answer 2

how would you know that it is stuck because it is electronically controlled, you need a scanner to move it, stuck open wouldn't cause any real concerns that you would be like it must be stuck. I would trying guessing at something eles or get someone who knows what they are doing