P1516 Error Code

[Izzmo]

I bought a '97 SHO about 2 weeks ago, and it's awesome. When I bought it, I knew the code P1516 was showing up, meaning there is an error in the idle speed control, or something relating to that sensor.

My question is, is there a way to fix this error, or do I have to replace the sensor. If so, where is the sensor located?

Thanks.

 

[SHOZ123]

DTCs P1518, P1537 and P1538 indicate IMRC is stuck open. DTCs P1512, P1513 and P1519 can indicate IMRC may be stuck closed. DTCs P1516 and P1517 indicate IMRC input error. DTC P1520 indicates IMRC control circuit malfunction.

Possible causes:

Cables improperly routed (binding) or seized.
Damaged/disconnected IMRC housing return springs.
Lever/shaft return stop obstructed/bent.
Lever/shaft wide open stop obstructed/bent.
IMRC lever/shaft stick/bind or disconnected.
IMRC actuator cable/gears seized.

 

[Izzmo]

This is probably a stupid question, but where is the IMRC located? Also, is this an easy fix?

 

[SHOZ123]

The control is under the front head cover. The actual IRM is between the intake horns and the heads where the FIs are located. The problem is the IRM is all carboned up. This doesn't allow the IRMC to fully close and will set the code and eventually break either the cable or the gears in the IRMC.

 

[Izzmo]

So would it be easier for me or a mechanic to clean it?

 

[SHOZ123]

Well it's plenty easy to have a mechanic clean it. You just fork over some bills.

If you want to do it then you need to take the intake apart. I would suspect a non SHO familiar mechanic would bill you a large sum of money to do this job.

 

[Izzmo]

Ahh annoying. My only concern with taking the intake apart is 1) I've never done it, so I'm risking messing something up and 2) I have no clue how to clean it once I take it apart.

I don't really have the money currently to fix it since I have to replace my clutch assembly in my compressor.

Do you think this is a priority?

 

[SHOZ123]

Easy answer is to just disconnect the cable, unplug the IRMC, wire open the secondaries and be done with it for good.

 

[Izzmo]

Wire open the secondaries? Does this help the performance of the car, or is it just a 'do it and you won't have to worry about it again' thing?

 

[SHOZ123]

That's been discussed quite a bit on this forum. The secondaries on the V8 are for your auditory pleasure only and are an acoustical psychological ploy on Ford's part which if completely removed (shafts and plates) will allow more air into the motor at WOT.