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You might also want to ask the folks about this in either of these two discussions:
Climate Control Problems (Heat, Air Conditioning): All Cars
Ford Windstar Problems
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Did you ever figure this problem out? I am having teh same problem with my wife's van. I found that the GEM sensor emits smoke when I replace fuse 19. When I called Ford to ask about the part and teh problem I was having, He said that it was most likely caused by a pinched wire. But I can't find it. I bet it is a common problem. I am hoping someone will be able to point me in the right direction
Tim
I had my DPFE replaced today. My check engine light came on and I ran the ODB-II scanner on it at work (Advance Auto Parts - we do it for free.) ANyway It called out the EGR flow. I replaced the EGR valve myself ($52.00) and erased the codes. The check engine light came back on and my milage went down. I was in over my head so I took it to my favorite auto shop. They replaced the DPFE. I was charged only $100.58 for the part and $247.50 for labor. If I had not replaced the EGR vavle myself, I would have paid about $1100 for both parts and labor. I did the easy part and saved more than $700. Go figure...
Would leaking of an air intake gasket cause the check engine light to come on?
Over the years, I have replaced the brakes, had the front end aligned, tuneup, starter, transmission fluid service, with the minor adjustments when they did the oil change and find something that needs done. Faithfully have done my oil changes between 3K & 4K miles. I now have 185K miles and trying to keep the minivan running. Still running good after doing some minor work over the last few months. I noticed a slow start with the transmission - that I noticed on some of the comments of this board and also they said I have some leaks (seals) that I also have seen on this site, even though I have not seen any leaks on the ground or garage. Was just wondering about how long before (my biggest fear) the transmission goes or any other major item that I should be worry about.
I am new to the site here and really enjoyed looking at some of the comments
Thanks.
To try to rectify this I pushed hard on the outside of the van back and forth to try to give it a rocking motion. I then got in the van and "bingo" it started. It has not happened since but you might try this is yours should repeat.. Best regards --- OMA
I removed the nut and bolt, as described. The starter wouldn't budge. I tapped it (then pounded it) with a rubber mallet. I tried prying it. But the starter will not budge even a centimeter. I've tried everything I can think of except nukes.
Anyone have any other suggestions?
Of course if you want to be absolutely certain, just pretend you have a flat on one of your rear tires, mount the temp spare on the axle, and put the full size on the spare's wire and hoist it up. I think you will find it fits snugly within the guides. And this would be good practice for a real emergency.
I hate temporary spares--what do you do on the Interstate in the middle of the night when you''re halfway across Texas or someplace. You can't get the flat fixed at that hour and you're not supposed to drive very much on the temp. I have intended to buy a full size inexpensive tire from Tire Rack and have them mount it on a rim they took off a car when the sold the owner alloy wheels. Twelve years and I never got around to it. About a hundred bucks but well worth it when you think of the flexibility and safety it would give. My 2006 Toyota Camry came with a full size spare, a surprise blessing.
Oh, exactly the same situation here. I had done that with our previous minivan, but never did get it done on the 1997 Windstar. We also towed a camping trailer and you are not supposed to tow with mini spare. Luckily never had a flat tire, until...
My daughter was 800 miles away using our windstar, which had just gotten brand new tires and she had a flat. Obviously she was not going to drive all the way home on the mini. The new tire had come with a free 12 mo road hazard warranty, but no one had that tire in the area. She ended up getting a bald tire mounted for $30 or so, just to get home.
Now I put the bald tire in the garage and if anyone were to go on a long trip in the old minivan, I'd just throw it in the back, so that it could be remounted to get home.
I know people have had enough troubles with the Windstar but I've gone many a year with just oil changes needed. Knock on wood. I figure I'll put under a thousand dollars into it to bring up to snuff
Subsequently there was power steering pump and rack.
If the radio makes some noise, but no stations received, it may be the antenna wire is not installed or connector/wire got damaged during process.
If its real dry and you've experienced any static shocks lately, google the web for ESD precautions when working with electronic devices. Your typical consumer electronics for your home is designed to eliminate this problem, but when you are doing your own technician work, things are different.
Look for a replacement radio on the internet.
One drawback of chains is that the main roads might be clear and then you'll have to take them off.
If you really like it(engine/ride/trans/paint OK) one option is to replace alternator and battery and go from there. Alternator problems can be tricky. On my Windsar, alternator is easy to get to. You will need a special tool to remove serpentine belt.
I've owned 2 Fords. Each had power window or power lock actuators replaced. If a button control assembly is bad you can get one from a salvage yard. I use a body shop. I'm a DIYer but not for doors,locks, and windows.
Always disconnect (-) of battery before working on any electrical system.