Aerostar stalling

Hello, I have a 91 3.0, in runs ok sometimes other times it starts to sputter or surge, and will lose power sometimes till it stalls(or have a bad idle). It will take a few tries to get it started again, then will either run ok or start surging again. The fuel pump and filter have been replaced as well as spark plugs. There doesnt seem to be alot of exhaust flow so at first I suspect the cat. convertor, but since it problem comes and goes (though it more often than not) im not so sure. Any ideas would be great. Thanks

So your Aerostar is surging too...

Glad I didn't replace the fuel pump.

I think the problem is senor related, check the O2 sensor esp.\

I have found that my problem does not exist until the van ahs warmed all the way up.

That is if the temp gauge has not reached the middle area, and the engine is still more or less cold.

Accelerating when it surges also seems to stop the surge.

BTW does your check engine light come on and then turn itself back off ?

I noticed that when my check engine light came on the engine stopped surging, then the light went back off and the surging started again.

eMail me if you wish at [email protected] for further direct discussion.


Hello, I have a 91 3.0, in runs ok sometimes other times it starts to sputter or surge, and will lose power sometimes till it stalls(or have a bad idle). It will take a few tries to get it started again, then will either run ok or start surging again. The fuel pump and filter have been replaced as well as spark plugs. There doesnt seem to be alot of exhaust flow so at first I suspect the cat. convertor, but since it problem comes and goes (though it more often than not) im not so sure. Any ideas would be great. Thanks

Also, RE: Cat Converter

In previous experience the Catalytic converter will cause a bogging down when hot. This may be similar to the surge issue but I don't think my problem is the converter either.

BTW how may miles on yours ?

Mine : 265,000

Thanks for the reply, i have iliminated the cat, the check engine light only seems to come on once it has died. there is a power loss issue as well(of course), most surging and power loss seems to come during moderate to high ecceleration. Im having problems pulling any codes will it running, but will keep trying.the miles are about 200,000

Thanks for the reply, i have iliminated the cat, the check engine light only seems to come on once it has died. there is a power loss issue as well(of course), most surging and power loss seems to come during moderate to high ecceleration. Im having problems pulling any codes will it running, but will keep trying.the miles are about 200,000

I sent a previous reply but don't see it in the threads.

My prob was the MAF sensor, and just the connection itself.
Cleaned the contacts, replugged and all is well.

My mechanic also said you could unplug the MAF and the computer will bypass it and take it out of the equation for fuel mixtures.

Appears to be a good way to test.

GOODS LUCK

I am having the same problem with my 93 3.0. When we start up (after the motor has cooled down) the motor surges up and down, after the motor is warmed up, it seem to run fine. Please keep us posted on your progess on fixing the problem.

I am going to try and replace the MAF sensor as suggested but where is it located?

Thanks for Now.

Hello, I have a 91 3.0, in runs ok sometimes other times it starts to sputter or surge, and will lose power sometimes till it stalls(or have a bad idle). It will take a few tries to get it started again, then will either run ok or start surging again. The fuel pump and filter have been replaced as well as spark plugs. There doesnt seem to be alot of exhaust flow so at first I suspect the cat. convertor, but since it problem comes and goes (though it more often than not) im not so sure. Any ideas would be great. Thanks

Hi forevercrow,

Check the connections at the MAF sensor. It is the one on the top of the air filter on the hose between the air filter and the intake. Clean the connection and retest. If necessary remove the sensor and take it to Auto Zone or Orielly's to be tested for free.

If the MAF checks out then find and check the O2 sensor.

Also, are you sure that there is no water in the fuel tank ?
Justi in case add a fuel conditioner with and additive to get any water out of the fuel mix, i.e. one with ethanol alchohol.

Good luck,

AL