'95 3.8 vs. '96+ 3.8

[SteveNixon]

Hello All.

Since some nice elderly lady helped me write off my 2000 Windstar LX with 170k kms on it, i'm in the process of purchasing a 95 LX with the 3.8. It has 130k kms on it, and the motor was replaced at 80k kms under warranty due to blown headgasket. now even though the motor was replaced in '99, they still put the 155hp version back in the van.

My question to all of you is how have you found the power to be in the 155hp version. i found my 2000 to be more then adequate, but now i'm looking at a drop off of 45hp.

Any response is appreciated.

thanks
Stephen

[teggenberger]

So, the 95 3.8L has 155hp and the 96+ 3.8L has 200hp? I didn't know that (I have a 95GL w/3.8L - 130k).
Also had the HeadGasket work on my 95 - I don't think they replaced the engine though.....did they?

[SteveNixon]

yes the engine went up 45 HP or so the next year. although for some reason i can't remember why it went up. it was just at the top of my head...

[wiswind]

Correct, the power went up to 200 HP in 1996.
They went to the big black upper intake manifold, and the Intake Manifold Runner system. This is where you see the posts about the IMRC (Intake Manifold Runner Control). They open up an additional air port for each cylinder above about 2900rpm......to give you more power. The extra port for each cylinder is closed below about 2900 rpm for improved fuel economy.

Come to think of it....I drove a 95 Windstar a few times on several mission trips....full of stuff and kids....in the Cumberland Mountains........and it was just fine.

There was a 3.0L version......which was less HP..... I have not read any posts complaining about the power with it....