Hi Dutch,

The problem with carbon in the coolant nipple is a possibility, but it is much more likely on the turbo models, because everything is just arranged differently. Will you have a problem with your ETM? Most likely. Further, it could just be kinda dirty at the moment, and having it cleaned could prove beneficial. Depending on where you live, some states require that emission components be covered under warranty for 7 years of 70K. Check your owners manual/service records booklet to see if you are lucky in that respect. Your "current" problem, however, could be software related. If the last six numbers of your VIN are between 000000-007485, then the following description may apply to you.

DESCRIPTION:
Occasionally when slowing down, coming to a stop, A/C compressor cycles on/off or during cold start, a customer may experience momentary idle fluctuations. This only pertains to 2001 model year vehicles equipped with non-turbo charged
engines and is ECM software related. If these symptoms occur on vehicles produced within the chassis number limit above download Software Function Id 829, P/N 30646377.

Software downloads are really quite affordable.

Hope this helps,
Chris