Nissan Repair: 1998 Nissan Pathfinder IAC Valve, upper intake manifold, air control valve

Question
QUESTION: My Nissan began to exhibit symptoms of a bad IACV (P0505)several months ago and has become progressively worse.  It will stall at idle, and sometimes under light to moderate loads.  When I restart it will immediately die unless I hold the pedal down and keep the engine at 2000 RPM.  During this time it runs extremely rich while puffing black smoke.  It will usually correct itself after about 10-15 seconds.  Does this sound like a typical symptom for a bad IACV?  Also, it looks like the valve is under the upper intake manifold up against the firewall.  I assume that the upper intake (and a lot of other "stuff") has to be removed to get to it?  I can get a valve for about $200, what would you think labor would cost for a repair such as this?  I am pretty good with mechanics, but do you recommend letting the pros handle this one?  Thank you for your time.

ANSWER: Jason,

I would purchase the idle air control valve from rockauto.com or courtesyparts.com and save a bundle on cost for the part.  Once you get the part you can see that it it not that difficult to replace.  After you replace the part disconnect the battery for five minutes to clear the code.  That is, unless you have a scanner.

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QUESTION: So am I correct that the upper intake manifold needs to be removed to replace the part, or is there a trick?  Thanks again for the help!

Answer
Jason,

You should be able to remove the idle air control valve without removing the intake.  Just two bolts and the connector.  The IAC is close to the throttle body on the driver's side...  Purchase the new part and a Haynes Manual and you should be fine in replacing it yourself.