this problem occurs randomly which im sure doesnt make it easier to diagnose. sometimes when i put it in park, the tachometer goes up to about 2200.other times, its around 1000 which I assume is where it should be.when i tap the gas when its at 2200, it does not go back under 2200. this forces me to sometimes engage a gear while idling high.any ideas?Edited by: sw2cam

Start by cleaning the throttle body ...

is this difficult to do?
got any pics or posts detailing the procedure?

its very simple.

1. Buy carb cleaner from any autoparts store
2. Remove the intake hose that connects to the throttle body.
3. Spray and wipe the inside of the throttle body and flapper until all the scum is off. Also turn the valve open to clean the inner portion as well.

thats it.

Why he is saying to clean it is its possible that your throttle body flapper is being stuck open, so its acting like you have your foot on the gas. This is a common problem with older engines. There are of course many other things that can cause this but this is the cheapest and easiest thing to try first.

If the problem continues i may have something to do with the vaccuum system or the EGR valve