2001 Ranger Edge 4.0 4x4 idle woes...

[IslandBlue01]

I've had this truck around two weeks and since I purchased it the idle has been surging from 350 to 900 rpm's. There is a CEL for the up stream O2 sensor reading lean. I have read that specific sensor has a heat element for better readings when cold. Would that have anything to do with it?
Should I pull the IAC motor and clean it? Would the PCV valve have any effect on the idle?

It is not consistent with engine temp and there is some missing throughout the 3k-5k range.

Things I've tried are:
-New Plugs and Wires
-Cleaning the MAF
-New Air Filter

Doing these things has cleaned the idle up a bit and the engine definately has more power but it still idled oddly at times.

Any help that you guys could give would be greatly appreciated!

 

[IslandBlue01]

Duhhhh....

I forgot to add that I know most of you would just replace the O2 sensor. I am new to these trucks and would like some second opinions as to what could be causing the issue. I don't like to just throw parts (read: money) at problems if I can help it.

Thanks

 

[IslandBlue01]

I solved it!

I ended up replacing the O2 sensor and it helped some but it did not fix the idle. So I went to testing the IACV and TPS. Turns out they were both bad and reading all over the place when sitting on my workbench.

Anyway hope this helps another Ranger out!