[zzyzzx]

Don't take you car to the dealer (or any other "mechanic"). All they will do is change out parts, essentially taking guesses at your expense. Personally, I don't replace parts unless I can prove them bad, and often things like a MAF sensor can be cleaned. A mechanic will never do that!

If I were you I'd check for vacuum leaks (your bound to have a few with a car that old). When I say check for vacuum leaks, I'm not just referring to broken vacuum lines, I'm also referring to any device that uses vacuum! A hand held vacuum pump and a vacuum gauge is what I use. Also check for air leaks. Check the TPS with a voltmeter. Check your EGR valve with a handheld vacuum pump and gauge. Clean your MAF sensor. Also check the computer for codes but don't be suprized when there aren't any.

 

[zzyzzx]

I think NAPA wants about $150 for an EGT IAC and less than $50 for a 1.9L engine.

However, having said this, I think there is the potential to make an IAC last forever if you can clean it properly. On my 1985 (1.6L) EGT the IAC was something that you could take apart and clean properly. It was screwed togather and you could separate the solenoid part from the mechanical part and clean it from the inside. On the newer Escorts (like my 1995LX) you can not do this as it seems to be one piece crimped togather. The only thing I can think of is to carefully soak the mechanical side of IAC in something overnight and dry it out and see if that helps.

 

[zzyzzx]

What is the proper way to check the TPS??

With a voltmeter set to ohms.

 

[zzyzzx]

Thanks for all the ideas!! What is the proper way to check the TPS?? Also is there a way to check the IAC?? Thanks.

You can check the TPS with a voltmeter.

You can do a very rudimentary check on the IAC by unplugging it and plugging it back in when it's doing the high idol thing when the engine is cold. It should stall out or just about stall out when you unplug it as the idol drops. That doesn't mean this it's good, but it rules out a completely dead IAC.