i'm not sure. now there's an Engine Coolant Temperature sensor that my buddy's been after me for about 3 months about changing. says that with 170k miles, it wouldn't be a bad idea.

but that wouldn't have anything to do with that, would it?

well, when I disconnect the hoses to the IAC valve, coolant mix does come out of them--moreso out of the passenger side hose rather than the driver's side hose on the IAC valve.

haven't checked for vac leaks, either. I'm gonna try to figure out what's going on with the other parts of the air/fuel system to see if they just need some attention before I go ORDERING that part.