High-Idle Mod
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Joined: Feb 2008
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From: Lubbock, Texas
High-Idle Mod
I run a 09 Expedition 4x4 5.4V8 as my work truck for the Sheriffs Office.
I was wondering if there was a way to wire up a high idle switch.
I did a search and only came up with threads about vacuum leaks causing high idle...nothing about making a switch.
There are times (like tonight) where I have to sit at a crime scene for hrs and hrs. I hate to let my vehicle just idle away for that long...especially if Im inside sitting, using electronics etc.
If I had a high-idle switch it would help alleviate the problems that come with excess idle.
I was wondering if there was a way to wire up a high idle switch.
I did a search and only came up with threads about vacuum leaks causing high idle...nothing about making a switch.
There are times (like tonight) where I have to sit at a crime scene for hrs and hrs. I hate to let my vehicle just idle away for that long...especially if Im inside sitting, using electronics etc.
If I had a high-idle switch it would help alleviate the problems that come with excess idle.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,253
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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
What problems are you having with extended idle times now?
I ask only because my 5.4 gasser-equipped E250 sometimes runs in excess of 1.5 hours rear heater, accessory lighting and various power point outlets in use not to mention the FM radio too. For my use haven't noticed any real issues apart from burning fuel without going anywhere.
I ask only because my 5.4 gasser-equipped E250 sometimes runs in excess of 1.5 hours rear heater, accessory lighting and various power point outlets in use not to mention the FM radio too. For my use haven't noticed any real issues apart from burning fuel without going anywhere.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2008
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From: Lubbock, Texas
What problems are you having with extended idle times now?
I ask only because my 5.4 gasser-equipped E250 sometimes runs in excess of 1.5 hours rear heater, accessory lighting and various power point outlets in use not to mention the FM radio too. For my use haven't noticed any real issues apart from burning fuel without going anywhere.
I ask only because my 5.4 gasser-equipped E250 sometimes runs in excess of 1.5 hours rear heater, accessory lighting and various power point outlets in use not to mention the FM radio too. For my use haven't noticed any real issues apart from burning fuel without going anywhere.
Also in the summer I could knock up the idle and keep my A/C cold on wreck scenes and other crime scenes....because exped A/C sucks in heat at idle
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,253
Likes: 1,656
From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Maverick I too was worried about potential engine damage due extended idle times but was assured the Modular engines run lean enough at idle while holding sufficient oil pressure this isn't a problem as it would have been with similar V-8 motors.
In my case winter idle times are the most important for my business materials while on a job but the A/C issues I can't speak to at all.
I'm wondering if an outfit like RV or repair shop or snow plow upfitters wouldn't have something that bumps the idle up a bit, perhaps for running inverters or the like? I know they exist but where eludes me too.
In my case winter idle times are the most important for my business materials while on a job but the A/C issues I can't speak to at all.
I'm wondering if an outfit like RV or repair shop or snow plow upfitters wouldn't have something that bumps the idle up a bit, perhaps for running inverters or the like? I know they exist but where eludes me too.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,253
Likes: 1,656
From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Stumbled across this outfit----links to a throttle control you might be able to use:
VMAC | Brochures | Download VMAC Brochures & Spec Sheets
VMAC | Brochures | Download VMAC Brochures & Spec Sheets
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Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 4,517
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From: SE Wyoming
I'd think the dealer could turn up the idle via the computer. Wouldn't have to remember to hit the switch that way, only issue would be if they could make it delay say a minute or so, so it wouldn't do it all the time.
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Joined: Apr 2013
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From: Zachary, LA
I know this thread is old, but I am wondering the same thing. I have a 02 F250 with the 5.4 and when doing special events I will be at idle for hours at a time. I understand the truck can handle the idle but my need is I run a 2K inverter so I need to make sure the alternator is charging when idling.
Thank you,
Michael
KE5EUA - Generally I'm an amateur of hams.
Thank you,
Michael
KE5EUA - Generally I'm an amateur of hams.
Freshman User
Joined: Sep 2011
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I used to have 2004 6.0 diesel & on the Ford powerstroke forum, they told you how to install a switch to add a high idle mod. All you would need is a switch & a couple of pieces of wire. I never done that ,but you could go to the powerestroke forum & maybe you could do to your gas truck? 
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SixGunCaliforniaKid
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