Whofan

I`d clean the throttle body out good.
The (IAC) idol air control valve would carbon up in my old chevy and cause stalling often. Thinking Ford`s might experience this too.

lewissa81

There's not an iac. The idle is controlled by the computer, using the throttle. Have you tried disconnecting the vct's? Since the problem starts when it's warm, and the VCT system (including phasers) kicks in, that it's timing related.

fuxxy

Did you mean unplugging the VCT solenoids? Or the cam position sensors?

When the truck threw the codes before I tore it apart, I unplugged the cam position sensors to trick it into limp mode.

lewissa81

I mean the VCT solenoids. Unplugging them will prevent the phasers from advancing or retarding the timing. The "check engine" light will come one, but don't worry about that. If the problem persists, then you should look for non-timing related issues (like vacuum leaks, dirty/malfunctioning throttle body, etc.). If the idle is fine (after it warms up), then the timing may be off, one or both of the new VCT'S may be defective, one or both of the phasers may be defective, or some other issue.
Just a thought. Maybe someone more knowledgeable about these particular motors will chime in and correct me if I'm wrong or add some more information.

fuxxy

Unplugged both VCT solenoids with no change to the idle issue.

I *DID* fix it, however!

The trouble was a dirty throttle body. Removed and cleaned with solvent and a brush, and reinstalled. Have not had *ANY* idle issues whatsoever!

lewissa81

Good job man!

fuxxy

One thing I'm not confident about are the two upper studs on the front cover. Can someone link a pic of exactly how the brackets and sensors stack on there?