As questioned previously, can this item be tested?

Also, does anyone know any of the symptoms of a bad thermo vac sensor?

Thanks
-Christian

 

I've read on here, IIRC, that if you suspect the idle stabilizer might be sticking, when the idle is running high, you can peck on it with a screwdriver or something and if the idle suddenly drops to normal, you know that you've unstuck it.

 

I know of people that have taken it apart and cleaned them and fixed them for a short period. They always seem to go bad again though so I would say bite the bullet but make sure its your IDV. I went ahead and did the same only to find out it was something else, lol.
Raj

 

That seems to allways be my case, Raj.

-Christian

 

I have a minor success story. To test the valve from my S2 (on the bench). I used a male injector plug from an old Volvo 240, and appplied 12 volts from a car battery. With reversed current and it twisted in the other direction. It was visably sticking. After cleaning with carb cleaner, it's been running fine for 9 months. --Roy--

 

So if I understand properly, the idle stabilizer fan blade thingy spins with a little 12v motor?

(It is kinda hard to fix something when you dont know what they 'REALLY" do!)

-Christian

 

The ISV is a rotary, or barrel, valve.

Sam

 

When i replaced my vacuum lines, i cleaned out the ISV with carb cleaner. It was amazing the amount of black crap that washed out. Took about a minute of spraying until it came out clear. I could see how the crud could build up and keep it from functioning properly.

 

so.....this is the same as the auxiliary air valve?

 

You can disable the idle stabilizer by jumpering B and C in the test port (if you have the factory manuals it will tell you which is B & C...I dont remember offhand)

That'll tell you if its causing whatever problem you're having...

 

well mine is diving from 1300 down to 800 when the car warms up. and it randomly dives down to 800. but only when its warm. the car used to idle at 1800 when warm, but i put a new tps in it......it brought the idle down to 1300-1200