​​​​​​​not sure what it's called but the throttle plate hit's it when not pedal isn't engaged. Timing sensor? I'm not sure. Can anyone clear it up for me? I found it pushed in and no where near the throttle plate. I feel as it shouldn't be able to move freely. I could be wrong. Any help is greatly appreciated

 

That's the advance idle solenoid. It just pushes the throttle plate back a bit to raise the idle when the coolant temp is under a certain value. Like 120°F I believe.
It works on the same circuit as the timing advance inside the IP, which adds I think 3° BTDC of timing to your IP when cold. They run off the same coolant sensor.

It's not strong enough to overcome the spring tension on its own, so if you don't blip the throttle before starting it can't engage the extra RPMs. Many of us intentionally wait to blip the throttle until there is oil pressure, unless it's below freezing then you might actually need it.

 

Alot of diesels actually call for you to raise the throttle to 1000-1200 rpms upon initial start up to aid building oil pressure.

 

That's good to know but it doesn't feel spring loaded or anything. I can move it up or down without any resistance. Shouldn't it be touching the throttle plate? Sry for the dumb questions. Just want to make sure it's not broke

 

It is only energized by the temperature switch if its below 111* The switch is a 2 prong guy behind the thermostat housing. Likes to come undone on mine once in a while. Isnt a "must be working" item, though it does help when it is cold. Usually i just sit in the pickup and hold the idle to 1200 for a couple minutes after i start, as mine is currently off to aid in my timing adjustments.

 

I made sure it's all connected. The shut off valve and the other push on tab things...my ultimate question is....it should move by the switch that activates it correct? This wouldn't be causing my surging or sputtering bogging and extreme acceleration at times?

 

Nothing to do with your erratic running problems.. It will move like its "broke" or not attatched to anything, but when its cold, and you turn the key on it should extend and move the throttle 1/4" or so.

 

I understand. I havnt seen it move nor have I paid attention it just caught my eye today. I appreciate the help

 

climb up into the engine with a flashlight. look down between the alternator and thermostat housing. you will see the sending unit way down there. it usually gets unplugged when changing the alternator.
it also only works under 110 to 120 degrees.
small hands can plug it back in, but my fat fingers need a large set of needle nose pliers to reconnect the wires on the sensor.