My 1996 Windstar 3.8L, 78K has an unusual idle problem...... after it has been running a while, shut off and allowed to cool for about 10-15 min., and then started again it idles very rough. This goes away after a few minutes and then it drives fine. It idles normal if started after the engine has completely cooled. I changed the Idle Air Control valve with not much improvement.
Any ideas? Thanks.
David H
David,
I can't be of much help, but I too have a 1996 (manf. date 9/96) Windstar with the same engine and about 43K miles. From new it did exactly that.
It went to two Ford dealers under warranty and they were able to reproduce the "issue" but it was normal for this van. It had to do with cold start and fuel enrichment system.
What I have found is that the "issue" is a lot better if the air filter is kept clean. Because of that I clean the throttle body, which didn't change anything. Would be nice to have a solution.
Fred
Thanks for the info Fred. I just bought the van last month so I don't know if it's been a lifetime problem. If I make any progress I'll let you know.
David
My 1996 Windstar 3.8L, 78K has an unusual idle problem...... after it has been
My 1999 having the same problem, I took to dealer where they cleaned in injectors & replaced the valve cover with an upgraded type (free of charged). The problem seems to go away.They also advised to used brand name gas, don't go to "cheap" gas. The mechanic did show me a trouble shooting diagnostic from Ford ( I could not remember all details) basically is pointing to the quality of gas. From there I always use "Shell" gas and put a bottle of good fuel system cleaner every 6K. workout ok . When the idling is rough , a hard step on the gas paddle will straighten it up. I hope this help.
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