Okay, so what the hell is an (intake manifold runner control?)

Blackducati750 · Aug 11, 2009

I don't fear the Check Engine light so much since I bought my code reader.

So, last time Mr. Check Engine decided to show his face, it showed code P1537.
The book that came with the reader said it was a "manufacturer specific"code, and couldn't list what it was.
A quick google search and I found out code P1537 means (intake manifold runner control stuck open.)

Problem is, I have no clue what that is.
I can only assume it's maybe a fancy name for the EGR valve?
I mean, there's not much under the hood that can get "stuck open".
My Haynes manual doesn't even list an (intake manifold runner control) as an emissions part.
Anyone else with a 2002 Ranger with the 2.3L (DOHC- single plug) engine had the same problem before?
Someone please help!

dorman68 · Aug 13, 2009

I would say check the vacuum hose going to the IMRC actuator solenoid (mounted by the intake manifold). They are prone to falling off or drying out.

The Intake Manifold Swirl Control (IMSC) or intake manifold runner control) is a vacuum actuated system that consists of a manifold mounted vacuum actuator and a PCM controlled electric solenoid. The linkage from the actuator attaches to the intake manifold butterfly plate lever. The IMRC actuator and manifold are composite/plastic with a single intake air passage for each cylinder. The passage has a butterfly valve plate that blocks 60% of the opening when actuated, leaving the top of the passage open to generate turbulence. The housing uses a return spring to hold the butterfly valve plates open. .

Under about 3000 rpm the vacuum solenoid will be energized. This will allow manifold vacuum to be applied and the butterfly valve plates to stay closed. Above approximately 3000 rpm , the vacuum solenoid will be de-energized. This will allow vacuum to vent from the actuator and the butterfly valve plates to open.

Blackducati750 · Aug 14, 2009

So, it's not a fancy form of EGR valve, right?

It simply adds/subtracts air to each cylinder?

Like a motorcycle "power valve?"

Being stuck open means the engine was running lean at idle?

dorman68 · Aug 14, 2009

It's basically a throttle plate inside your intake manifold to control airflow. Below is a generic picture of this type of part.

tex · Aug 15, 2009

Oh Crap, Not me too.

:sad:

I have a 2002 2.3 and just today had the same code (P1537) pop up.

It started a little rough this morning (like a good Ford does) and warrmed up nicely. After stopping at the store, I noticed the check engine light on.

Took it to AZ and found out it was the P1537. Guy told me to get it fixxed or lose the engine.

Trouble is, it's not running any differently. What Up?

Blackducati750 · Aug 15, 2009

Good ol' Ford. Like the throttle body wasn't doing it's job of controling airflow.

They gotta put something inside the intake manifold.... :icon_twisted:

tex · Aug 16, 2009

Blackducati750 said:
I don't fear the Check Engine light so much since I bought my code reader.

So, last time Mr. Check Engine decided to show his face, it showed code P1537.
The book that came with the reader said it was a "manufacturer specific"code, and couldn't list what it was.
A quick google search and I found out code P1537 means (intake manifold runner control stuck open.)

Problem is, I have no clue what that is.
I can only assume it's maybe a fancy name for the EGR valve?
I mean, there's not much under the hood that can get "stuck open".
My Haynes manual doesn't even list an (intake manifold runner control) as an emissions part.
Anyone else with a 2002 Ranger with the 2.3L (DOHC- single plug) engine had the same problem before?
Someone please help!

WATCH THIS VID and it might help you out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgikQ8s6Va0

My hose had a crack in it. Instead of replacing (like I should have) I duct tapped it.

Blackducati750 · Aug 16, 2009

Thanks Tex.

I would've never thought to look on YouTube for a problem solver.

But, it looks like it's a common problem with 2002 2.3L Rangers.....

aogden001 · Aug 28, 2009

Be careful when you're messing around with the vaccuum hoses where they attach to the accuator. I broke the accuator and ended up spending $200 to replace it. All because I was impatient & not paying attention.

Blackducati750 · Sep 2, 2009

aogden001 said:
Be careful when you're messing around with the vaccuum hoses where they attach to the accuator. I broke the accuator and ended up spending $200 to replace it. All because I was impatient & not paying attention.

Will do. Thanks

Blackducati750 · Sep 30, 2009

Okay. So, I finally got around to checking my nipples. :bawling:

Neither were cracked, both hoses looked okay.

Can someone tell me how to find a part number and a cheap online source to purchase it? I'll let the motor blow up before I pay full retail price at my local dealer!

By the way, is there a test procedure (maybe using a 12v test light and a vacuum gauge) one can do to check if the IMRC is working at all?

Thanks fellas!

Davis · Oct 8, 2009

Blackducati750 said:
Okay. So, I finally got around to checking my nipples.

Neither were cracked, both hoses looked okay.

now that just sounds wierd.

Blackducati750 · Oct 13, 2009

Anyone? IMRC part number?
Anyone?
Anyone?
Where can I buy it online?
Buhler?
Buhler?..........

Buhler?

dorman68 · Oct 14, 2009

3S4Z 9J559AA - is the OE number for imrc vacuum control solenoid or valve

Blackducati750 · Oct 14, 2009

Thanks dorman.

Any idea where I could buy this part online?
Googling the part number was no help....

Okay, so what the hell is an (intake manifold runner control?)

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