On my 2000 4.0L SOHC Explorer my idle suddenly just completely went out at around 40,000 miles. It would run fine, start fine, but just die if you took your foot off the gas. I took my idle air bypass off (easy, two bolts and a connector)

As you have said, the process to clean the Idle Air Control is a simple process...see the process with detailed pictures at: www.fixyourford.com   Save yourself from having to tow your vehicle in and/or from having a $200-$300 repair.    

That is very true, but that seal inside the bypass is rubber. Sprays such as carb cleaner and wd-40 eat that gasket. They won't stick anymore, but they will start to bypass air and the gasket may deterorate. I recommend cleaning them to, but be careful. I think silicone spray works ok, but doesn't clean near as well as carb cleaner does.