I have a 1998 Ford F150. It was having a system too lean code (sorry can't remember the code) I had it in a shop and they were basically just guessing I feel like until they found the problem

After changing a few fuel lines and cleaning the intake manifold, they blamed it on the imrc (driver side) and changed it.

Now after passing smog and no codes for about 2 weeks I start getting the code p1538. Imrc stuck open bank 2. This is the part they changed but here's the kicker, they did the part free and isn't in the computer so it's not under warranty. And the manager at the time has since quit.


I have the old part so I know they've changed it and I also changed the passenger side myself. I have also changed the egr solenoid as I have seen people say this could be a fix

I'm stumped now and do not know where to go from here.
im a novice mechanic so I don't have much diagnosis skills I'm mostly a YouTube mechanic lol.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I dont want to take it back to that shop. I trusted the manager that has since quit but the owners I do not and I feel they will just keep guessing and I'll just keep throwing money away. I would like to.try fix it myself


Edit: I've read some old posts here. I've made sure the bushings are there for the arms of the imrc to hook into. Both imrcs are new and the egr solenoid is new.

Update: this morning I got another code its p1537 along with 1538. Now both imrc are stuck open. After work I'm going to check all the lines, and go from there.

 

Check the vacuum line to the IMRC. Maybe it fell off. If they replaced it, it should be good. You may want to watch this video for some guidance.

 

Thanks for the reply. The lines are connected. I'll check that video out for more diagnostic help

 

I got that code on mine several years ago. It needed new plenum gaskets and isolator bolts, which the 98 doesn't use. The 03 has a plastic intake, the 98 is (I think) aluminum. What you need to do is look for vacuum leaks, it's possible you need new intake gaskets.