Thread: How exactly does the AIV work on early 91, 92 SR20DE's?

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You've got the basic idea of the AIV correct.

It is activated via a vacuum hose from a solenoid. When this solenoid allows intake vacuum to enter the small hose, the valve should activate.

There is a way to check the valve by sucking on the small vacuum hose, pinching it with pliers to keep the vacuum in it, and then blowing and sucking on the two 1" hose connectors (one at a time). Search on the forum for details -- or pm me if you cannot find the procedure. But I know that it's been posted.

If the valve fails the test, you need to replace it. If the valve passes, then it's not getting the correct control signals through the small vacuum line. This could be from faulty wiring, a bad solenoid or improper routing of the vacuum lines.

thanks for the info, yeah if there is a procedure on the form and you have access to it, it would be great to get it.

I wonder whats more expensive, the solenoid or the AIV itself?
I'm pretty sure the vacuum hoses are connected fine, its that the car is old.
thanks again.