Fast idle

[danix]

I was alarmed to find that as the mornings have gotten colder, my car started racing at idle, at least until the engine warmed up.
I'm talking 2500-3000rpm.

Did some research and found the cold start mechanism which has a coolant hose plumbed to it, and provides a mechanical actuation of the throttle to bump the idle speed (or race the engine in my case).

Thankfully, a simple adjustment of the actuating rod lowered the cold idle speed, and today when I left for the airport at 5am, it idled normally.
Simple fix, hope this can help someone else in the future. I'll add a picture when I can.

[gadget73]

There is actually a whole setting procedure for that but basically there should be a gap between the star wheel and the back of the throttle lever when its warmed up. I don't have the manual in front of me (I can email you a copy if you send me a PM ) but I seem to remember its somewhere in the .015 - .025 range. The manual goes into more measurements to make sure the cable clamp is where it belongs.

[danix]

@gadget73, please send me the procedure if you have it - you have my email.
I've adjusted this 2-3 times already and it keeps coming back.

[gadget73]

Will do when I get home

[gadget73]

http://www.grandmarq.net/gadget73/Ford% ... engine.pdf

[danix]

Thanks, that was quite helpful. I finally have the idle sorted.

[gadget73]

Ford has their faults, but they do write a decent manual.