I adjusted the idle with the ISC motor d/c, turned it about 1 1/2 so it would start then backed off about 1/2. Should I be adjusting it with the ISC connected? I don't think it will even be touching. I'll have a look now, as I just found my multimeter.

Ok, I adjusted it with the ISC connected and everything normal, it *did* change the idle speed. I was thinking too logically, I won't pretend to try to understand how these things work.

From a quick drive it's looking a lot better, idle in both drive and neutral is pretty much where it should be and I am not having to brake so hard when it's in drive. Previously it felt like the engine was fighting with me (and I guess it was) when braking at low speed or doing the final part of a higher speed stop.

I'll keep a good eye on it now and hopefully that's the last of the issue... thanks for everyone's help

tell 'em to leave the bloody idle screw next time !!!!

This is a dealer that came up with a quote of over $5k for maintenance work (including $2200 for a changeover diff because I mentioned it had a bit of a whine)

For a near-stock AUIII Fairmont I don't think I'd be spending $5k on MAINTENANCE