My 96 7.3 F250 (California model) is having idle issues. At red lights, the idle sometimes drops and comes back quickly. This happens more often when the truck is warm. Last night, after putting it in park, the RPMs dropped unusually low before returning to normal. Giving it a quick throttle causes the RPMs to drop more than normal before recovering, as seen in the video I took.
Recently replaced the fuel lift pump and turbo boots. There’s some black smoke under heavy throttle (not a lot, but worth mentioning). I have a FORScan reader but haven’t hooked it up yet. Where should I start looking to diagnose this?
Try unplugging the EBPV (Exhaust Back Pressure Valve). It might be partially stuck or a wiring issue could be causing it to close slightly. This can restrict airflow, leading to erratic idling and black smoke. When unplugged, it defaults to the open position, so it’s an easy thing to try.
Nico said: @Teo
Unplugging it works if the valve isn’t stuck, but if it’s seized or travel-limited, you’ll need to open it up and check.
Good to know. When I had the turbo off recently, the valve moved freely. Hopefully, it hasn’t seized since then. This problem was happening back then too, but not as bad.
According to the link: ‘This pedestal manufactured by Garrett is a simple drop-in solution for your Early 99 Powerstroke that was built 12/7/98 and before.’ Seems like a good option, and reasonably priced. If mine started leaking, I’d go for the delete.
