2000 windstar defrost problems

[GOT2FORDS]

I have a 2000 Windstar with defrost problems. If you place the selector switch to vent or floor prior to starting the vehicle it works fine. If you switch once the vehicle is started it will stay on defrost no matter where you place the selector. If you leave it on floor or panel while driving in about 5 to 10minutes or so it will eventually switch to what you have selected. The A/C compressor cycles all of the time in the defrost position. If you change to floor or panel the compressor will stop cycling. I know it is low on Freon but I was going to fix that in the spring. Lots of heat van works great other than the defrost problem. Any help would be appreciated.

[busboy4]

Hi
I still think you likely have a small vacuum leak in the line that controls your vent positions. My van worked similarly to yours i.e. control of output increased once the van had run for a while.
As yours seems to work if you "pre-select" it I am thinking that your system is tight between the vacuum reservoir/vacuum check valve, and the controls. That would leave any leak between the intake manifold and the vacuum reservoir - assuming my thought process accurate, which I hope others will chime in on.
Now, my van is older - '96 but I think your setup is likely similar. Look for a semi-rigid vacuum line coming off of your intake manifold at the rear and running up under the cowl toward the top of the right strut area. You should see a vacuum reservoir up there. I would carefully look at that line. In my case there was a small leak from the line rubbing against the A/C freon suction line.
Again, I'm coming from my '96 perspective but I think the vacuum layout remained similar in later years.

[GOT2FORDS]

Thank You I will check this sometime this week. Would this also cause the AC compressor to cycle when I have the selector switch on defrost or defrost/floor? Or would that be another unrelated problem?

[busboy4]

Originally Posted by GOT2FORDS

Thank You I will check this sometime this week. Would this also cause the AC compressor to cycle when I have the selector switch on defrost or defrost/floor? Or would that be another unrelated problem?

Hi

Check your owner's manual to verify, but your A/C is designed to come on when you have chosen any defrost mode in order to dry the air. Your compressor cycling somewhat quickly is not surprising in cold weather. If you have quick cycling in warm weather that is often a sign of a low freon charge.

I have my Windstar, an Olds Intrigue and a Pacifica. They all command the A/C when defrost is selected. The Pacifica even switches away from re-circ to outside air to further ensure the dryest air.