Big Iron
8/7/2006 4:51:40 PM
Hi Guys, newbie here.
I have a 2001 Ranger 4cyl, 5spd, 2wd with a check engine light on.
I took it to the parts store and he plugged his scanner into the dash. I believe it was a obd-ii code reader. The code that showed up was P1537. He said he could not pinpoint the problem any further than that and suggested the Ford dealer. He erased the code and shut the check engine light off but it was back on before I got home. Can anyone tell me what this code is and is it something I can replace myself?
94 4x4 ranger
8/7/2006 5:15:15 PM
P1537 - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open.
You might want to look at the imcr valve. It is probably sticking from carbon build up? Use top engine cleaner and clean the air plenum.
Once you have done this clear the codes and go for a ride. About 30 miles should do it. If you have anymore codes it will come back up.
Big Iron
8/7/2006 6:26:54 PM
Thanks, where do I find the imcr valve or the air plenum?
94 4x4 ranger
8/7/2006 7:08:16 PM
The air plenum is the air intake. the imcr valve is on the intake.I think it is on the right.
Big Iron
8/7/2006 9:48:13 PM
OK, I see four different electronic modules on the side of the intake. One stalled the engine when I unplugged it. Theres one down near the air cleaner. the other three are up over the engine. Theres nothing on the modules to identify them. Any idea which one?
Mulletman
8/7/2006 11:35:15 PM
Here is a pic of the IMRC, but it is for the 2.3L
Notice how it is close to the steering shaft?
94 4x4 ranger
8/8/2006 7:48:44 AM
Just spray carb cleaner in intake this will clean the inside of the valve. You cant clean the out side of the imrc. Unless you are looking to replace it.
Big Iron
8/8/2006 10:17:43 AM
Thanks Guys, I'll play with it some more today.
94 4x4 ranger
8/8/2006 10:41:09 AM
After you do this and take it for a ride disconnect the battery for a few minutes to clear the code. Then if the light is still on try to clean it again.
Big Iron
8/8/2006 8:42:07 PM
Well, I found the imcr valve. I took it off, blew through it then put it back on. I pulled off the large plastic hose running from the air cleaner up to the throttle(?). Hose was spotless inside after 80000 miles. air cleaner is clean. I sprayed some carb cleaner into the throttle. I also put injector cleaner in the gas. Went for a ride and it had more power.(dont know if power is from more air or injector cleaner) I removed battery cable then reinstalled to put engine light out. Went for another ride this evening and so far no engine light and it drives better. Still seems a little sluggish on the hills. Maybe I'll give it another dose of spray tomorrow. Thank you all.
94 4x4 ranger
8/9/2006 10:32:18 AM
Glad I have helped.If it a little sluggish up hills. Just make sure all wires and vacuum line's are on tight.If not mabey time for a tune up!
Big Iron
8/9/2006 2:30:43 PM
Its back on again.

Can I spray the cleaner directly into the imcr valve? The truck does seem to have improved however the light did come back on.
94 4x4 ranger
8/9/2006 5:54:37 PM
Yes if this does not fix the problem you will have to get a new 1.