'01 ST System Lean Problems! Help!

[dh1155]

I have an '01 ST with 101k miles. I have both sides system too lean codes. I had a tune up about 300 miles ago. Even after tune-up, the idle was extremely rough at stops while in drive and would periodically die while a/c was on. After more investigating, I realized an elbow piece on a vacuum tube was split and had been for some time. I replaced this and adjusted the idle up just a bit and everything seems fine. No more rough idle. No more dying. My guess is that the prior tune-up was done with the bad elbow.

My system is saying both sides are too lean which leaves me to ask if replacing this elbow 300 miles ago will make this code go away? If so, how long will it take? Should I reset the battery and wait or does it go off on its own?

If this is not the problem, what do I try next? Any suggestions? I don't know much about engines and auto repair in general, but I am a fast learner.

Thanks for the reply.

 

[dogfriend]

Since the codes are for too lean, and you had a vacuum leak, this was very likely to be the problem.

You can either: keep driving and see if the codes disappear - it may take several drive cycles for the code to clear.

Or you can disconnect the battery for a few minutes to clear the codes. (if you have a scan tool, you can do this without disconnecting the battery).

After you clear the codes, then if the codes do not reappear within a few drive cycles, you will know that you fixed the problem.

 

[John_Rock]

On my 01 ST I can reset the computer with no tools required.

On the Power Distribution box underneath the hood, pulling fuse #21 will clear the computer's memory and codes. Sadly, this trick does not exist on my 2000 Explorer Limited.

 

[dh1155]

UPDATE: Thanks for the suggestions. I disconnected the baterry this morning for about an hour before I left. It has since been started/stopped (6) times and been driven about 50 miles. No sign of the CEL yet. (crosses fingers)

Also, does anyone know or has anyone personally put fog lights in on an '01? I have been looking at it, but would like to do it myself.

Thanks

 

[dh1155]

UPDATE: It has now been 30+ starts and over 170 miles. I think I am safe! Thanks for the tips guys!

 

[majorhavoc]

I have an '01 ST with 101k miles. I have both sides system too lean codes. I had a tune up about 300 miles ago. Even after tune-up, the idle was extremely rough at stops while in drive and would periodically die while a/c was on. After more investigating, I realized an elbow piece on a vacuum tube was split and had been for some time. I replaced this and adjusted the idle up just a bit and everything seems fine. No more rough idle. No more dying. My guess is that the prior tune-up was done with the bad elbow.

My system is saying both sides are too lean which leaves me to ask if replacing this elbow 300 miles ago will make this code go away? If so, how long will it take? Should I reset the battery and wait or does it go off on its own?

If this is not the problem, what do I try next? Any suggestions? I don't know much about engines and auto repair in general, but I am a fast learner.

Thanks for the reply.

Where did you get the elbow piece??