98 windstar 3.0 will not keep running

My 'check engine ' light has been on for a month or two , but engine kept running well so I ignored it -(idiot)-. Today, under accelaration engine quit. restarts easily a number of times but will not run more than 2-3 seconds.
On an old style vehicle I would immediately change the fuel pump , but I've heard there are a few other things that can cause this on Windstar. ( IAC being one of those )
-Can anyone please help , ?

what code has the CEL given you?

Sorry, I'm not familiar with CEL. I haven't noticed any code showing, where would it be ?
This morning I changed the fuel filter and cleaned out the IAC. Still the same, will run about 2 seconds then quit.

Sorry Charlie CEL is "check engine light". You indicated that it's been on for a month or 2. I'm wondering if you have had that code read by either the dealer or an autoparts place. The code will may give us a heads up as to what the possible cause of your trouble is.

Piper

I have solved the problem ! I checked the fuel pressure on the rail and it was 35 which I understand is close to normal. To me this ruled out the pump :smile: . So I began to go through all the other items that can stop the engine. Mass air sensor near the air cleaner box was my first choice and the engine ran ( although a bit raggedy) when it was disconnected. I removed it and cleaned the contact points and blew all the dust out. Now it ran really well ! I am SO relieved this wasn't the fuel pump

Piper, thank you very much for your advice . First thing tomorrow it goes to the dealer to have that "check engine' light dealt with. I learned from this experience.

OK....they re-did the profile lookup.....so I don't know if you are in the USA or not.
If you are in the USA, you can get your code(s) read for FREE at many auto part stores.
Make sure to write down the numeric code.....not just the description.....you may have to ask for the numeric code as most folks just want a "what's wrong" kind of answer.
With the code.....you can come back here and find out the likely causes on this forum.

For a lean code such as P0171 and/or P0174.....they may try to sell you oxygen sensors.....which is RARELY....if ever the cause of that code on the Windstar.....usually it is extra air getting into the intake......a vaccum leak.
One thing that seems to be quite reliable on the Windstar is the oxygen sensors.

Some of the members in Canada mentioned that it is not as easy to get the codes read there.

It is really good to read that you got the problem solved.....but I wanted to mention the free code reading in case you have it come on in the future.

great news that you got it solved Charlie! If you haven't already got the codes read, I'd suggest investing the $$ instead in a code reader for yourself. There are tons out there ranging from $20 to $2000 and beyond. I bought this one http://www.iequus.com/product_info.php?product_id=3100 although I really think I should have bought this one http://www.autoenginuity.com/products-scantoolpc.html (http://www.autoenginuity.com/products-scantoolpc.html)with the ford specific module.

Anyway, glad things are working again.

Piper