1992 3.0L Taurus (non-SHO) Problems

[micaheli]

Well, here goes.. I got this car as a temporary car until I can find something better, and I actually like it. Here are the problems that I need to fix.

1. Wobbly brake rotors.. I have done this before on a Crown Vic, I'd imagine its quite the same.

2. Power steering pump is LOUD. Going to run some conditioning stuff through it and flush it. Any more suggestions?

3. Radiator has a small leak somewhere... I can't tell where exactly it is.. but I will start by replacing the hoses. If it is the actual radiator would you waste your time with the radiator sealers? They have worked for me before, but I'd rather get a 2nd opinion. I'll flush it several times of course.

4. The power door locks in the back seat do not function.. The motors just make a loud noise as if they are slipping. I have some experience here and will probably just rip it apart and see whats going on. Anybody know where to find an electrical diagram for this car online?

4. The drivers switch for the rear windows does not function. I can, however control the passenger window.

5. The engine stutters and bogs down (hesitation) at stoplights/signs sometimes. I would imagine cleaning/replacing the ignition stuff (cap, rotor, wires, plugs, etc) would remedy that.. I will probably try replacing the plugs and doing the timing first. Any ideas?

Other than those things, the car is great.. Runs very well.. transmission shifts great. Has around 144k on it. Is there any other recommended tune-ups that you would do to a recently purchased car in need of TLC?

Thanks,
--Micah

[Ringo]

1: change the damn rotors.

2: if the flush don't work...just buy a rebuilt pump, they're like $30.

3: don't be lazy, find the leak, it's probably just a cracked or loose hose.

4: your car is more than 10 years old, water may have infiltrated the wiring in the rear due to rust.

5: yeah, do a tune up...but don't forget the egr valve, they get carbon deposits throughout the egr system, flush it out. If the problem persists, it may also be a failing idle control valve.

[micaheli]

Well, I found the hesitation problem.. I was cleaning stuff under the hood and the main distributor wire that goes from the coil to the center pole was totally shot. I just bumped it with a wash rag and the wire broke off and was all char'd and crusty.. Replaced it and voila - not only no more hesitation, but lots more power and better fuel economy. Yay.. Now onto the PS pump.

Thanks All,

Micah