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Topic: Deciphering pulled codes (Read 1958 times) previous topic - next topic

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #1
How to run codes, including links to what they mean

http://oldfuelinjection.com/?p=13

11 means system pass. It says all codes twice so you don't miss them.

21 means ect (engine coolant temp sensor) out of self test range. If your car was not up to operating it can throw this, and if it was warm, the sensor might be bad. This could cause your car to run rich, and possible buck.

23 tps. (Throttle position sensor) out of self test range. This needs to be replaced.

I would replace the tps right away, clear codes/pull battery for 20 mins to see it if goes away and sets the idle right. The ect thing, could be because you have not had your car warmed, so I. Would check that again after clearing codes and see if it shows up again.

If there is a vacuum leak, it can also cause a high/bucking idle. On my own cars, theidle was set too high and would actually make the car try to either cut fuel to lower the idle, or cut timing. Basically, after replacing the tps, you need to reset your idle in a way the computer can still control it.

Unplug iac (the sensor on the front of the intak, between the throttle body and egr spacer) start your car, turn your idle screw down until the engine is barely running, then plug the iac back in. Clear codes, should idle fine after. Any questions, come right back.
Quote from: jcassity
I honestly dont think you could exceed the cost of a new car buy installing new *stock* parts everywhere in your coug our tbird. Its just plain impossible. You could revamp the entire drivetrain/engine/suspenstion and still come out ahead.
Hooligans! 
1988 Crown Vic wagon. 120K California car. Wifes grocery getter. (junked)
1987 Ford Thunderbird LX. 5.0. s.o., sn-95 t-5 and an f-150 clutch. Driven daily and going strong.
1986 cougar.
lilsammywasapunkrocker@yahoo.com

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #2
Actually, just noticed that these are both key on, engine off codes (continuous memory).

Replace tps, follow idle reset procedure in my last post, warm the car up, then do a key on engine on test(koeo).
Quote from: jcassity
I honestly dont think you could exceed the cost of a new car buy installing new *stock* parts everywhere in your coug our tbird. Its just plain impossible. You could revamp the entire drivetrain/engine/suspenstion and still come out ahead.
Hooligans! 
1988 Crown Vic wagon. 120K California car. Wifes grocery getter. (junked)
1987 Ford Thunderbird LX. 5.0. s.o., sn-95 t-5 and an f-150 clutch. Driven daily and going strong.
1986 cougar.
lilsammywasapunkrocker@yahoo.com

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #3
Why replace the tps I didn't get code 23?

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #4
Dang it, I remembered 24, not 23 sorry. Ect and act were out of self test range. I'm guessing your engine wasn't warmed up. Do a key on, engine running test. Thanks.
Quote from: jcassity
I honestly dont think you could exceed the cost of a new car buy installing new *stock* parts everywhere in your coug our tbird. Its just plain impossible. You could revamp the entire drivetrain/engine/suspenstion and still come out ahead.
Hooligans! 
1988 Crown Vic wagon. 120K California car. Wifes grocery getter. (junked)
1987 Ford Thunderbird LX. 5.0. s.o., sn-95 t-5 and an f-150 clutch. Driven daily and going strong.
1986 cougar.
lilsammywasapunkrocker@yahoo.com

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #5
Coolant temp sensors are notorious for failing in the obd1 ford products and will make them run like pure .

Replace then clear codes ill guess the 2nd  code  wont come back
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Owner of Joe Dirt Fabrication

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #6
Quote from: SLEEPER T-BIRD 87;380514
Coolant temp sensors are notorious for failing in the obd1 ford products and will make them run like pure .

Replace then clear codes ill guess the 2nd  code  wont come back

Will try that then post back here with results.

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #7
Replaced ECT cleared the codes took her for a drive and no change. Drove it for about 1/2 hour total and when I got back I pulled the codes and there were none. :mad:

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #8
is this for a 2.3T by any chance? if so, you may have the same issue i just conquered.. then again. it's possible with a 3.8 and 5.0.. i've been rustling with this stupid car for a bit now, trying to get it right.. while my ECT was shot, it didn't really fix the problem.. today, i changed my TFI on the distributor (took a total of about 4-5 hours running, off and on to finally show a code).. i had a brand new TFI in the console that came with the car, so i replaced it.. it took away the miss and bucking idle.. i then went through the 'setting idle' process to get her where she needs to be, and she now runs like a dream.. i still can't move it, as i'm waiting on wheel bearings and brake pads, but i'm willing to bet my issues are gone now
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R.I.P. 'Zump' 8/29/86 - 11/11/11
3- 87 TC's / 1 really mean 83 Capri RS / 94 Sonoma SAS Project on 37x12.50 TSL Radials / 88 S10 that's LITERALLY cut to pieces / 84 F150 SAS, 351M, 39.5 TSL's / 85 Toyota regular cab, 22R 5spd, 3/4" drop, my little junkyard save/daily driver

 

Deciphering pulled codes

Reply #9
Replaced the ignition module and hesitation is 90% gone I think whats left is just a matter of needing plugs and wires. Thanks for the help and I am putting it up for
sale I loaned a family member money to buy the car and as much as I like it I need that money back. Check the classifieds if you are interested.