Device to allow keeping throttle just above idle?
 

Has anyone designed a simple system where you would add a finely adjustable solenoid at the throttle body to allow keeping the TPS slightly above idle area for use when running at 25-35 mph and for adjusting speed when approaching a stop sign?

This would be controlled by a dashboard switch.

Why would you want to keep your rpms above idle?

My Focus idles at 16 TPS...when going 25-35 mph... keeping the TPS at 17-18 results in maintaining speed and seeing the best mpg....same as when approaching a stop sign or corner and trying to get to the sign at 25-30-35 mph. Also this would help when going over some hills.

I currently do this manually...but it is difficult.

These kinds of solenoids have been used on various cars that have AC...to up the idle some....

Dfco
 

are you coasting ?
are you in neutral ... or in gear , automatic trans , 5 speed ?

not too sure about fords; but gm and chrysler both use iac stepper motor's to control idle rpm. 4 wires normally, 2 to control in and 2 to control out; but you'd probably have to disconnect it some how from the pcm to gain control and the pcm might freak out.

Auto...in gear.

The solenoid idea would require custom fitting....another idea would be to use a choke cable to insert a thin shim at the throttle stop.

The Scangauge indicates mpg in the low 40s at 25-35 mph....TPS 17-18.

I use a sort of pulse and glide...TPS at 32-37 to go....glide into stops and corners...in gear. The 18 TPS would be used in 25-35 mph areas and to adjust speed for stops and hills.

It sounds like a hand throttle would do the job. Pretty much hook something like a bicycle gear shifter to your throttle, which you can then use as a sort of cruise control for the throttle (pretty much what you're saying you do with your foot but easier to hold at a certain TPS). Some offroading guys like to use them, so that's where I would start looking for info and ideas.

MJpies or similar