So, recently my 5.2L van has been idling very rough most of the time. While stopped at a light and idling, the van seems to want to stall at times. Other times it seems to idle rough and jump forward. While driving, sometimes the truck wants to stutter when the gas pedal is depressed. While driving along and there is no stuttering, the van seems to jerk and skip while attempting to change gears.

I have not done any type of diagnostic tests yet, but hoping my description of the symptoms might yield a possible idea of the cause. Please, provide some feedback, thoughts or ideas.

For what it's worth, a list if what is new on the truck that might be relevant:

Plug wires
Coil
Battery
Alternator
Plugs - six months ago

 

Your engine is a Magnum 5.2L/318cid between 1994-1/2 to 2003. The problem is very typical of what you describe. Easy fix. Costs very little.

Clean the IAC and the IAC ports on the Throttle Body.

Do a search here for "clean IAC" with my user name "stev" It will be a step-by-step DIY instruction picture tutorial.

 

I have done that almost 8 months ago. The IAC didn't look too bad at the time but I gave it a wiping off anyway. Unless it needs to be replaced altogether, I doubt that is the issue. Either way, I will take another look at it.

what else could it be otherwise?

 

The IAC is only in play at idle when one's foot is off the gas pedal. So this wouldn't explain the problems while driving.

 

To me the symptoms seem to point to a problem either with the TPS or the torque converter lockup.

 

I did all of the fixes to mine that you have done and still had same problem. I decided to try another relative inexpensive fix and changed the oxygen sensors. Problem solved. If you decide to go that route, search this forum for correct ones. I cannot recall the make but it does matter for our vans. Good luck!

 

I'm going to go ahead and replace the TPS and then go from there.

 

The ignition wires when worn or aged can relate to your problem too. Also, there is a TSB on how to properly route the ignition wires to prevent stalling or confused signals to the PCM due to crossed ignition wires.

A good set of Prestolite OE fit ignition wires can be had at Rockauto for about $15+shipping.

 

Bingo! The TPS was the cause of the problem. Thanks everyone.

 

Gotta think to myself, if there wasn't an on-board cpu, half of the troubles I've encountered would have never been an issue. I might be of the mind set that these computer controlled engines are more trouble than they're worth. If it wasn't for the computer, the engine would have continued on trouble-free.