There is no movement on the plunger of the cold fast idle solenoid( there is power) Can i assume it needs replacement?

 

Try pulling it out with your fingers while you have the key ON. See if it stays out. Then turn the key OFF and see if it drops back. It may just be sticky from non-use. Try that several times. Maybe some simple cleaner like spray electronics cleaner around the plunger. If it doesn't stay out with the key ON, then it's definitely shot. If it does stay out, but doesn't seem to pop out on its own the next time you turn the key on, then it may just be weak and need replaced anyway.

 

Thanks I’ll give it a try since a replaceme t is something like $60.

 

Check for power to it with the key on and engine cold before replacing it.

 

I did the wd 40 and manually worked the solenoid shaft while the key was on and “Voila” just save myself $60!…Thanks

 

For what its worth, the fast idle solenoid is not powerful enough to push the throttle lever by itself. It will hold it open if you hit the pedal. Its not that the solenoid is "weak", just thats apparently how it was designed. Also like bashby mentioned, the engine has to be cold to test the solenoid. (well you could also run a 12V jumper to the terminal).

You can adjust the what the fast idle speed is by turning the plunger. It may be stiff, but the end is hex shaped for a wrench. FYI the plunger can be extended far enough that it can affect the normal idle speed. Normally there will be a gap between the end of the plunger and the throttle lever in the idle position (solenoid off). If there is no gap, the plunger may be holding the throttle lever instead of it resting on the idle screw.

Hence the reason the factory instructions for starting the truck say to turn the key on, hit the accelerator pedal, wait for the "wait to start" light to shut off, then crank.

I just want to make that clearer for anyone else reading this thread.

 

I agree. always hit the pedal, allows the solenoid to set and hold it.

 

^^^^ Yes, but NOT the "gas pedal"......

 

Is the gas pedal connected to the fender mounted starter solenoid?

 

Sorry about that... I corrected it with the proper term "accelerator" pedal

 

In my car it's the 'go faster pedal', in my IDI it's an auxiliary brake.

 

No, it's connected to the ignition coil....