the idle should be around 750 when the engine is warm

 

Normal idle is about 750... which is 3rd dash, just before 1000RPM.

If you're idle is up and down (like some of us) then there could be various problems. Do you have a CEL (Check Engine Light)? Go to an AutoZone and they'll read your computer codes for free.

I'm not done with my car, but its idle/runnings issues maybe done or close to it I hope. But I replaced the very old Spark plugs and cables, DPFE and EGR and had a cable disconnected that goes to the IMRC... Look just under the air-intake rubber hose going the Throttle body - theres a cable/linkage down there. This is my car and my problems doesn't mean they are yours.

Hey... there are guys who can't change a tire.

 

I should have said my eng.light was on sorry about that but i used to idle right at 1000 rpms .i drove it today but the rpms will go up and down from 1000 to 1500 rpms and even when i let off the gas it will stay around there but then will drop down to 750.yes that linkage did come off but i fixed it .but anyway from what parts i have put on has at least let the car now idles in park.but idles so rough hope someone finds the right part that they replaced that i haven't .thanks fro the imput texas.

 

Have you had the codes read? post them here and that will help us narrow down the cause(s) of the problem.
You can have it done at autozone, advance auto, pep boys,ect.ect.

 

Autozone is free... and post ALL the codes that are given to you.

Once I have confirmed my car is fixed, I will leave my own thread open (Its nice when people say "that worked"). I have about $300 in parts & tools on my car, some I needed anyways ($300 in spark plugs and wires). Until that CEL goes out, I'm not in the woods. For me, I'd say the Spark plugs helped the most... and it seemed that it still didn't run right until I drove it around. In another 40miles (150 total) I'm going to check my error codes again. My thread is: http://www.newcougar.org/forums/problems/141996-idle-running-problems-cold.html

 

Ha cat it has been a while but just wanted to let u know that my car is idleing now and i can drive it .it's not right but i got it back on the road .changing pug's this weekend and once i have a little more money i think i may pull off the intake and clean it good .thanks for the help.