Guess how. Hint: Did after replacing all the heater hoses.

 

You removed the slack in the throttle cable so that the throttle position opens to 100%.

 

Good job. Next hint was going to be required a zip tie.

 

All owners should do this. It does indeed make a very noticeable difference....

 

Is this an easy mod? Any links to share?
I am intrigued.

 

Pretty easy, on the drivers side you can find the throttle cable in the engine bay under the corner plastic cover, unlath the little plastic cover. Connect an OBDII reader and look at the throttle position, adjust it so it's at 100% when at full throttle no more no less otherwise you will idle high.

 

I believe there is a video in the "sticky threads" section showing you exactly how to do this. Takes less than 90 seconds to do....

 

Not being pedantic but it is NOT a mod, it is a regular maintenance task, albeit a very occasional one.

 

The OP is correct, sadly others with 4.2 engines listed in their sigs are not

The 4.0 and 4.2 versions have different throttle systems and adjustment procedures. Please refer to JTIS for your year.

You do not need to do this on the 4.2- as you can train the ECU the actual throttle pedal positions (it is fully digital/motorised) - without touching the cable.
If you do adjust the cable on the 4.2 you need a special adjustment tool and should also carry out the throttle position training to ensure you achieve 100% throttle opening.

The 4.2 throttle position training should also be carried out if you disconnect the battery etc.and need to reset the door window memories. It is listed in the 4.2 battery reconnect procedure.

I have checked the cable on my 2004 and the adjustment is correct, there is meant to be a certain amount of slack in the 4.2 system for correct operation.