GM Truck Club Forum banner

Testing an idle air control valve

25K views 50 replies 7 participants last post by  tbb2  
#1 ·
I suspect I may have a malfunctioning (failing?) idle air control valve. Every once in a while (I wish it were more consistent) I start the truck and it immediately dies... unless I hold the accelerator to maintain 1000 to 1500 rpm. Typically, as the engine warms up, the engine operates normally. Only once, the problem occurred with the engine at normal operating temperature. To remove the idle air control valve appears to be a very simple task (Only two screws from an easily accessible location.) I’m sure there’s a proper technique for checking it’s function to determine if it‘s okay, needs cleaned or needs replaced. I’d like to know how to test and if appropriate, clean to restore proper function. If it needs replaced , fine. I just don’t like throwing parts at a problem “just in case”. Especially $140 parts. Any advice would be appreciated.
 
Discussion starter · #8 ·
Thanks again. As soon as I have a few hours I’ll check the fuel pressure with an eye on a new AC Delco fuel pump and a new filter.
I never would have thought of going that route because of the way the truck preforms at high power and high speed.
Thanks again! Nothing beats experience!