Help!!

[steelchap]

I have a 96 windstar that blows an awful smell into the heater vents when it isn't moving. I can't find an exhaust leak anywhere. The smell doesn't come in when the van is moving, only when it is still. I'm not sure what is going on. I wonder if anyone would know what the problem might be?

[rodeo02]

Describe the odor. Is it a sweet, antifreeze smell, a rotten egg- exhaust or mold smell, or a gasoline, burning oil type odor? You say you checked for an exhaust leak. If exhaust type fumes is what you are smelling when you let off the gas, or at a stand-still, You might be getting a puff of blowby thru the HVAC intake. Check for a loose or disconnected breather or PCV line, missing oil fill cap, or a clogged catalytic converter causing exhaust gas to leak thru the exhaust flex joint or donut gasket.
G/luck
Joel

[steelchap]

It is a very powerful exhaust smell. If you are at a stand still, it continues to pour in. We've been running the heater only when we are on the move and then shutting it off at stop lights, etc. It is a pain in the neck to say the least. Besides, it is unhealthy and we have kids in the car. It just about chokes you out. I'll check the things you mentioned. If you or anyone else has any other ideas, please let me know. Thanks alot for your help!

[rodeo02]

You definately have an exhaust leak somewhere close to, or in the engine compartment. Could be a small leak in the "Y" pipe or flex joint gasket, leaking EGR tube or a manifold leak. You probably dont want to dump a ton of money into an 8yr old van, but most exhaust shops will give you a free evaluation. Get it checked out.
G/luck
Joel