"03 Windstar high rpm's...sometimes

[Roy]

I purchased a '03 Windstar Sport in March '07 with 50,000 kms. and have two worries. One the transmission is a little rough at low rpm and "clangs" into gear at low speed. The other concern is that every so often the rpms creep up and I don't have to step on the gas to keep moving. I'm at the lights and pushing down on the brakes to hold the van from pulling me into the intersection. Once I turn off the ignition and start up the van again it's fine??? for a day or two. Looking for some advice please.

[Flyingjackal456]

1) that is actually somewhat normal, unless it is excessive... the Windstars do that quite a bit

2) no idea, are your spark plugs ok? possibly a sticky throttle cable? throttle cable need calibration (idle screw)? consider cleaning out the throttle body, even if it doesn't help, it'll make it run better

[Roy]

Thank-you Mr. F. Jackal. I'll try "un-stricking" the throttle cable. I read through the many problems with the Windstar and didn't find anything remotely like my problem...so hopefully it'll be that simple.

[Flyingjackal456]

buy throttle body cleaner and WD-40

use the cleaner on the throttle plate, and also spray the cable, trying to avoid hitting electrical stuff (not good for wires) then use a little bit of WD-40 on the cable end and also the spring on the throttle body. DO NOT spray WD-40 inside the throttle body, you can spray throttle body cleaner down while engine is on i believe. Just read the instructions on the can of cleaner.

EDIT: Actually the transmission issue, might be related to high idling... hope we get both solved!

[Roy]

I bought the cleanerand found the throttle body and plate and it was clean. I cleaned it anyway and now for 1 1/2 days things are running great! The tranny is still clunking but all else is goooood!

[mark v]

If it keeps happening you might have some running issues to deal with. Anytime you have to fight the engine to keep the car stopped is not a safe thing to ignore and let happen over and over.