Ford: Ford Ranger 97, throttle linkage, ranger driver

Question
Dear Ken;

First off, I am overwhelmed that there is any help out there at all.  Thank you.  My problem is a '97 ranger, six cylinder, that when it is warm will not idle back when stopping.  If you 'goose' the accelerator several times, it might return to a slower, more normal speed.  There are times when, it almost acts like an automatic transmission.  With foot off of the accelerator, the truck runs along, slows a bit, speed kicks in, increases, drops off kicks in.  Scary, at best.  I have had the truck to local dealer and put on computer test with negative results.  EEEEEk!  What is happening?

steve balme, scary ranger driver.


Answer
Mr. Balme,

First off, check the throttle linkage from the throttle body all the way into the cab. Also, check the shifting linkage on the transmission. The only other thing that comes to mind is that you have a bad Idle Air Control. Go to your local Advanced Auto r Auto Zone and have them perform a free diagnostic scan for you. That will tell you if the Idle Air Control is bad. Hope that this helps and if you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Good luck.


Ken