Originally posted by Michael Linton:
This is my second SVT Contour...had a 98 first and now the 99. I have a somewhat different approach to the Throttle "hang" issue. If you disconnect the large flexible hose that feeds air into the throttle body, you'll notice carbon deposits collect around the brass intake "flap", (don't know the technical term...sorry) that prohibit the engine from breathing properly at when the throttle is returned to the idle position. Use a little carb cleaner and spray the intake til the carbon deposits dissolve. (burns up during combustion). This returns the intake idle setting and allows the engine to breathe normally at idle. This has always fixed the problem for me. I attribute the deposits a function of all the oil sprayed on aftermarket air filters like K&N, etc. eventually being pulled through the intake in very small quantities...also the brass flap is prone to oxidation...again, leaving deposits where it comes in contact with the intake housing. Just routine maintenance. Hope it helps... mdlinton@lucent.comWhat you are doing here is cleaning the throttle body. This is something I do frequently (roughly about every 10,000 miles or so). It often makes a difference, but as some are describing, sometimes the problem is more involved. Two of the less common items that can cause this is a sticking Idle Air Control valve and a defective Throttle Position Sensor. You should always start with a good throttle body cleaning before moving to something else.
I'm sorry if I seem to keep repeating myself, but it does make a difference, often a very big difference.
