2000 3.8 windstar running rough now - Page 2

BryanF · 06-07-2008, 11:52 PM

that's a pretty serious load of misfires

i'd start by troubleshoting your ignition system. you may be due for new plugs, wires, and/or coil pack. wouldn't hurt to check the condition of the fuel injectors while you're at it.

to test the coil pack, you can measure the resistance of each coil with an ohm-meter to make sure they're within spec (whatever the specs are, i don't know offhand, you'd have to look them up somewhere). make sure the injectors are clean, and you can measure the resistance on them to make sure they're within spec as well. wouldn't hurt to run a compression check too.

that covers the basics. make sure you have compression, fuel, and spark.

hope that helps at least somewhat.

PMCosby64 · 06-08-2008, 11:33 AM

I agree that running perfect to running on 2 cylinders is quirky. I'm not able to do much to my vehicles myself anymore as I have the beginnings of MS. My soon to be ex is a ASE cert mech, and he doesn't seem inclined to help. I bought a Haynes manual yesterday and read most of it, but I don't know how much strength is involved to R & R the plugs and wires. Yesterday when I drove it again, I used the cruise control and it actually kept it up to speed better than by me. Is this just a coincidence? Thanks

BroncoJoe19 · 06-12-2008, 06:21 AM

Mechanically it is probably a coincidence. If however your MS is more advanced than "just the begginning" then is it possible that you no longer have the muscle control ability to maintain constant throttle control?

Sometimes pulling plugs and wires can be somewhat strenuous. There is a sepcialty tool/plyers for pulling the rubber boots off of spark plugs, that may help.

PMCosby64 · 06-21-2008, 06:09 PM

I was actually able to change the front 3 (4,5 &6) plugs. Still misfiring. Now also has error that bank 2 (rail) is running lean. Should I go ahead and try cleaning out the EGR ports. I had the cowls off the other day to visually check the coil pack. I am just trying to check everything possible as I will barely have the $ for a diagnostic to be run. At least my small hands (yes, I am a girl) were handy(pun intended) in getting the plugs changed. ps the MS isn't affecting my ability for throttle control. Using the cruise presents the same results. Your help is still appreciated!!

GraybeardAv · 06-21-2008, 07:46 PM

It would be a good idea to check the fuel pressure. When I get back to Calif from Ill, I'm going to install a gauge permanently under the hood. Most of the time it is boringly constant, but when there's a problem, fuel pressure can be spotted or eliminated immediately.

McMaster.com has a gauge for about $10 plus UPS.

GB

BryanF · 06-21-2008, 11:09 PM

if you have a lot of miles on the van, definiteyl clean the EGR ports. it's not tough to do, and it can cause a lot of problems making the engine run rough.

check all your vaccum lines while you're in there. if any of the lines or hoses look cracked or dry rotted, replace them. an easy way to check for leaks too is to spray some starting fluid or WD-40 or something flammable on the vacuum lines while the engine is running, and if it causes the engine to rev up then you have a leak. just be careful where you spray since it is flammable.

if you clean the EGR ports, i'd also change the #1,2, and 3 spark plugs since you'll have the cowling and the upper manifold off, giving you some room to work with.

tbirddmnd · 06-24-2008, 06:51 AM

Just like Corey (njdaewoo) who posted back on 3 June I have a 2001 Windstar that had the same exact symptoms. After changing virtually all the sensors and the plugs/wires (to get the back 3 plugs the cowl MUST come off - it gives plenty of clearance) it still had a rough idle and misfiring.

I then changed the COIL PACK and the problem cleared up! The Windstar runs like a scared rabbit. My problems also started right after I put in some cheapo gas.

Change your coil pack (the black plastic piece where all the plug wires plug into in the back) and then report what happened next.

I also did the procedures described here below and it didn't help me at all. You're welcome to try but I would say change the coil pack FIRST. These are kinda long:

2000 Ford Windstar (Codes 171 and 174)

2000 Ford Windstar (Idel Air Control Problem)

GOOD LUCK and let us know!

Gonzo
Westland, Michigan

chewee · 06-24-2008, 11:07 AM

My 99 Windstar Is Still In The Shop ! 3 Months My Mechanic Said Hes Going To Change The Computor, If That Doesnt Work Hes Giving Up. Erratic Codes, Hes Checked The Grounds, No Vacum Leaks, Plugs And Wires Changed. Still Nothing. Every One Is Giving Up. I Just Replaced The Engine In December And It Ran Perfect For 4 Months. Mechanics Around Here Are Very Confused!!