2000 Windstar Won't Start

[so2315]

I have a 2000 Windstar SEL that refuses to start. I recently had the valve cover /intake problem fixed. Shortly after that after it sat all night the van would just turn over. It would not fire or attempt to fire.
Finally it did take off and has run fine since. Today the wife calls me from work and say's the van won't start. Battery is fine, and it started fine this morning for her. Same symptoms, no hint of even wanting to ignite on any cylinders. I checked wires, inertia switch, and finally went to the pressure relief valve for the fuel line under the hood. I turned the key off and on several times and could hear the fuel pump cycle. When I pushed in the valve I was expecting to get sprayed with gas but there was not a single drop. Is this due to fuel pump failure? I have seen people mention a fuel pump relay. Where is this and how can I check/replace it?

[12Ounce]

It's in the plastic fuse/relay box near the battery and air filter canistor. Refer to glove box manual for location.

However... if you are sure you hear the pump running (maybe you aren't), you've got other problems. Pull the pump relay and see if it affects the noise that you hear.

[12Ounce]

...also, let me give you another little hint. It's easy to get disoriented when trying to locate relays using that diagram in the glove box.

Hint: "Left" on the diagram is to the "front" of the vehicle.

[so2315]

Is the relay the fuse in the platic box? I pulled the fuse, 15 amp, and it looked good. Or am I missing it altogether?

[12Ounce]

There are plug-in relays (black boxes...two sizes), plug-in diodes, and plug-in fuses in that box.

Do you have the glove box manual?

On my '99, its relay #207. ????

[so2315]

I just retried the van, and when I turn the key on I can a clicking noise under the hood. I do not hear the pump running. I also do not have the pressure in the line. I guess it may be the relay. Will try to get a new one tomorrow. Did you have the same problem on yours?

[12Ounce]

Barely. Maybe a dozen times or more.

You've done a good job of sleuthing....and right to get new relays... don't start mixing used relays around. You might as well buy at least a couple of both sizes ... you'll need 'em as time goes by.

[so2315]

Does the clicking sound indicate a bad relay? Or does it mean the relay is working?

[12Ounce]

Good question. A clicking relay means the internal solenoid is moving ... but the contacts may be burned/dirty or even stuck...

Final answer: A clicking relay is not necessarily working.