I recently aquired a 1985 BMW 318i. It will not idle properly. When
the engine is not in gear and moving, the engine will jump constantly
between 900 and 1100 RPMs while idling. Everything else seems to be
running properly. Someone told me that the idle control unit needs to
be replaced. Do you think this correct? I have heard that there is an
idle control valve; this is not the problem? I cannot locate the idle
control unit. Someone told me that it is located in-between the glove
box and dash, but I can't find it. Will someone provide me with
detailed instructions or a diagram? I cannot afford a mechanic and am
not savvy with cars. I cannot afford a manual, but wonder whether or
not this information is
provided in the Bentley manual.

Ouch, folks throw those away up here because unless you/they are a sharp
mechanic, they are WAY too expensive to fix or own. Now if you have
just won the lottery you might be able to keep up with the repair
bill.... If the mechanic really likes you...

Idle jumping sometimes or usually means a vacuum leak is happening. A
loose oil dipstick can cause it. There are other vacuum modules that
can fail and cause an idle surge, but I only know for sure the loose
dipstick will cause it because I 'fixed' one like that after my brother
in law spent $2000.00 at the 'mechanics' trying to make it run with only
the mechanic's wallet the winner.

Good luck!

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

"jjnorth06 (AT) yahoo (DOT) com" wrote: