I am new to the forum so bear with me.

My 1998 Ford Explorer Sport 5.0L , 59,000 miles, is running rough. Ford replaced the spark plugs and the fuel filter and nothing changed and $187 later I am in the same boat. Ford recommended a new IAC for $130.

After reading these forums and talking to my neighbor(a die hard Ford enthusiast) which referred me to this forum, told me to clean the IAC.

I found the IAC on top of the intake manifold. Two bolts and one electric plug, I called Auto Zone and they said it had no gasket. However Ford told me it had a gasket

Before I remove and clean it do I need a gasket or not?

Is this something a non mechanic like me can do?

Thanks

 

I need to add something. Ford told me that cleaning the IAC was only a temporary fix and that it should be replaced. Their price is $92.

Should I clean it or replace it?

 

Yes, you need a gasket and yes, for the most part, it's only a temporary fix.

Here's a link about replacing the IAC and in the last couple of paragraphs, it talks about cleaning it.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...r_IAC_Fix.html

 

Thanks. I think I will just replace it and maybe save some headaches.