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Old 12-03-2010, 01:50 PM
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olopezm olopezm is offline
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Re: 2000 Windstar 3.8 engine

Quote:
Originally Posted by drumcatjim View Post
Also, can a garage with diagnostics do better with checking the codes than i can with my cheap meter?
Negative, they might be able to read some live data from the sensors (which might not be your case), anything else will be the same as you are doing.

You might be able to rent a fuel pressure tester kit from the autoparts store and should be a good way to start. Check this images to know where the fuel pressure test port is:

Click on them for a larger version

Here's the test port with the plastic cap on it


Here's the same port from another view and with the cap removed, look for it under the DPFE sensor (that black box with the gray connector and two hoses coming out of it)


Fuel pressure spec:
key on: 35-45psi
idle: 28-45 psi
engine off after 5 minutes: 30-40psi

If you're still not comfortable with the fuel pressure kit, the quickest test you can do is SEE how much pressure comes out of the test port when the van is running OK: turn the key to the on position but DON'T start the engine and use a screwdriver to press the valve at the center of the port, be careful as fuel will spray out.

Then when the van starts running bad, repeat the test and see if there's any difference like fuel only dripping instead of being sprayed.

Do one more test also when the van is running bad (it might not help with the symptoms you're having, but it doesn't hurts to try); disconnect the harness to the MAF sensor, it's the only harness coming out after the air filter. If it starts running better, you've found your problem.

Best regards,

Oscar.
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1995 Lincoln Town Car 4.6 Signature
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT 3.8
2000 Ford Windstar SE 3.8
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