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My truck is a 87 F150 302FI 4x4 winter beater. Just yesterday it started acting up. When i got off the high way i put it in neutral and coasted down the off ramp. It's a manual. Then my gauges all dropped and the i noticed the truck was not running. it started right back up but i have to keep giving it a little gas in order for it to stay running. It idled on it's own just fine before i got onto the highway and everything else on the truck seems fine. No check engine lights either(if the bulb even works).
If you have access to a code reader I would check the codes. Sounds like when it is at idle it may not be getting fuel. Which could be fuel filter, about $8. If it is not idling at the correct rpm then the IAC Idle Air Control unit may be dirty or need adjustment. Also could be TPS Throttle Position Sensor. A search will turn up alot of info on how to set this or drop me an e-mail and I'll send you what I have.
i cleaned the iac and i've been getting about 12mpg so i don't think the fuel filter is bad. but yes it is acting like it's not getting fuel at idle. could i adjust the idler screw for a temporary fix? it's only a winter beater, what long term effects could that cause though?
I would add a container of a good name brand fuel injector cleaner to a full tank of gas(pour it in before you fill it up). I had an 88 Ford Tempo that acted like that, I gave it a complete ignition tune up that didn't help, but the fuel injector cleaner cleared it up in short order. This car ran very good down the highway and seemed to have plenty of power when I was having the problem. This may not solve your problem, but it won't hurt to try it.
I checked to see if the check engine bulb was working and there isn't even one in place so i am going to go get the codes checked now and i'll inform you all on how i turn out. thanks for the help so far. I am also goig to try some injector cleaner. is STP what you would call a "good" brand?
yes. Also lucas is a good brand too. I used to run always lucas like every second tank but I've found out that I don't have to. Every oil change they say, but I prefer more.
i was unable to get the code checked at autozone because they said the code won't come up because there is no ses light on. The light isn't on casue there is no light in place. they are idiots down there. Anyways i did put a bottle of black STP in but i was only able to mix it with like 6-7 gallons of gas. i'm kinda broke right now. how will that affect the cleaner and the engine?
I always use Techron but that shouldn't make any difference. When I've had problems the cleaner will usually take care of it within 100 miles or so. Since you have mixed it stronger it may go quicker but I can't say that for sure.
i adjusted the idler screw up just a little so that the truck idles at 800 rpm and it seems to be fine now. I still don't know if that was the problem though.