low idle engine stall

[phildee]

when coming off higher revs, with the clutch disengaged, the tach indicated engine speed falls below 500 (600 is normal) and causes the engine to shut down.Local Nissan mechanic unable to adjust.

[180fan]

what's the vac at on your car?

[phildee]

Sorry, don't understand your ? Mechanic suggested I was too dumb to drive stick.Even after 57 years behind the wheel. In simple terms, when the engine rpm dips below 500 (600 is normal idle), and if turning the steering wheel at that point I believe the Pwr Steer pump is loading the engine and causing near shutdown.

[TheGoodDR]

Try unplugging your coolant temp sensor and see if that makes any difference. It will put your car into closed loop and give you an idea if you have a sensor failure.

My old car used to do that and it turned out to be a failed knock sensor.

[rotorimp]

Sounds like it is your Idle air control valve--they get loaded with gunk and can not adjust fast enough (duty cycle) 5 seconds with a Nissan consult will point straight to your problem. Find a Different Nissan tech.

[phildee]

Yes, he mentioned adjusting the air flow, but he said it would have other consequences - idle too high, and something about poorer gas mileage. This guy is fairly young, but he has perfected the "mechanic's shrug" if the questions are too tough. Seeking out a different Nissan center is a good suggestion. Thanks!

[adrianfromthecastle]

Local Nissan mechanic unable to adjust.

Mechanic suggested I was too dumb to drive stick.

dude, your mechanic is a d!ck, and he obviously shouldn't be working on Nissans. It's a common problem with the older 240's. Here's a few things you should check up on (and clean); Idle air control valve, TPS, and Mass air flow sensor. Also check for any vacuum leaks (which can also lead to that problem). Have you noticed your car running rich/ smoking? Also, search up and download a FSM for your year and model. It'll tell you where everything is and procedures to fix and diagnose your problems.

[3Q Jay]

S13 is on the right trak. you can unplug the TPS and reset the base idle, or you can take it apart and clean the mofo the right way. i keep my intakes spotless (hand cleaned). lot of work, but perfect hot cold starts, butter smooth idle, passes CA emmissions with ease.

[phildee]

Do you think my 3.0L V-6 would have the same gear as the 240s you mentioned?

If so, I plan to print out your reply and present that to the service tech.

I appreciate your willingness to help, but my mechanical skill is to drive and let the pros fiddle under the hood. It's called recognizing one's limits. Thanks!

[rotorimp]

Yes---sort of ----The motor controls,emissions,sensors are pretty much the same -- the diagnoses of all of them will all be about the same. Try a different tech--(less pimples the better). Also be as in depth with the service writer as possible--- Symptoms, is the motor cold/hot--- running it hard, started it 5 min. ago. good luck let us know how it turns out.

[RICERMAN]

good advice given and also if the car has OBD11 or OBD1 emmission controls the dwell is automaticaly changed when you slow down and stop by the EEC........a scan may help