GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 1913751  Size: MF

Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve System

The intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve system uses variable air induction tuning in order to achieve maximum performance and efficiency over the entire operating range of the engine. The characteristic torque curve of a normally aspirated engine depends mainly on how the engines average pressure changes over the engine speed range. The average pressure is proportional to the volume of the air mass present in the cylinder when the inlet valve is closed. The design of the inlet system determines how large an air mass can be drawn into a cylinder at a given engine speed. An IMT valve is used to change the intake manifold plenum configuration. When the IMT valve is open, the intake manifold is configured to one large plenum. When the IMT valve is closed, the intake manifold is configured to 2 smaller plenums. The 2 intake manifold plenum sizes result in different torque curves, which improves performance at low and high engine speeds. During low speed, high load conditions the IMT valve is closed creating a longer runner path inside the plenum, which increases torque. During higher engine speeds and loads, the IMT valve opens creating a shorter runner path inside the plenum, which increases horsepower.

Ignition Voltage and Ground

Ignition voltage and ground are supplied to the IMT valve microprocessor and motor.

IMT Valve Control Circuit

During operation when the valve is open, the control module applies ground to the IMT valve control circuit, which indicates to the microprocessor within the IMT valve to position the valve to the closed position, which turns the motor ON and rotates the IMT valve within the intake manifold plenum.

IMT Valve Signal Circuit

When the IMT valve is rotated, the hall-effect sensor is reporting the position of the valve to the microprocessor. The microprocessor then sends a frequency back to the engine control module (ECM). The ECM uses this feedback signal to determine the position of the IMT valve.

Typical Scan Tool Data

IMT Valve Open

Scan Tool Parameter

Normal Range

Normal Operating Conditions: The following scan tool parameters listed below produced the same results from the following operating conditions

    • Key ON Engine OFF
    • Engine idling/driving with light throttle engine speed less than 2,500 RPM
    • Vehicle accelerating with TP Angle between 45-65 percent and engine speed under 3,500 RPM
    • Vehicle accelerating with TP Angle above 65 percent and engine speed over 3,500 RPM
    • Wide open throttle (WOT)
    • Vehicle decelerating without throttle applied

IMT Valve Command

Open

IMT Valve Command

OFF

IMT Valve Solenoid Circuit Status

Incomplete

IMT Valve Position

Open

IMT Valve Feedback

8-12 momentarily during first start-up

15-30%

IMT Valve Closed

Scan Tool Parameter

Normal Range

Normal Operating Conditions: Vehicle accelerating with moderate throttle (TP sensor above 45 percent) engine speed above 1000 RPM.

IMT Valve Command

Closed

IMT Valve Command

ON

IMT Valve Solenoid Circuit Status

OK

or

Incomplete

IMT Valve Position

Closed

IMT Valve Feedback

70-90%