Hi folks, New to this group. I have a 1988 E150 5.0L with 113,000 miles. I dont drive the van often but the other day I had it out and as I was driving I noticed the check engine light came on. I also noticed the idel speed seems to be a lot shallower or lower than normal. The next day when I fired it up. it starts but I dont seem to have a high idle, I have to keep my foot on the gas until it warms up then it seems to settle out at about 500rpm withis usually about 200 rpm or lower than normal for it. Any clues how to check for codes without a code reader, also any clues on the possible problems.

 

Just thought I'd update everyone on this. I had a mechanic buddy look at it. He found that I had a loose connection going to the temp sensor that sits in the front with 2 wires going to it. He said the computer didnt know the engine temp that is why my idle dropped off and engine light came on. Its fixed now.