112 MPH fixes Track Off light blink and other problems?

[Ron59]

1998 Windstar: Since changing my transmission fluid to Amsoil Synthetic, going to Bocsh wires and four electrode spark plugs I have experienced sporatic lunging or hesitation of the vehilce when starting uphill along with the Traction Control light flashing and the engine light going on. I have put up with this for nearly 2 years.
The dealer has no clue and codes did not help, nor did a recent software upgrade. Simply out of frustration I took the darned thing up to 112 mph (you can get away with this in the middle of Montana if your careful) a couple of times. It's been nearly 1000 miles now and I have not experienced this problem! Oh - once the chugging and lunging quits the light quits blinking. That's the Traction Control Off light not the ABS. I have not had the ABS problem - - - - yet.
Anybody care to hazard a guess as to what's up? Clogged catalytics? Clogged fuel filter? Fouled (new) plugs? Bad gass cap?
Anyone want to buy a Windstar? This is my first and LAST Ford!!!!!!!
Thanks for any ideas.

[phil-l]

One item of interest: I'm also involved in a Ford Contour discussion forum, and it's well-known in Contour circles that the various Bosch plug variations (platinum, multiple electrodes, etc.) simply don't work well in the Contour, particularly the 2.5l V6 Duratec engine.

My first suggestion for you: Switch back to a quality (Motorcraft or Autolite) double-platinum plug, and I'd steer clear of multiple-electrode plugs unless your engine was specifically designed for them, and the manufacturer's documentation calls for them.

A guess on sporadic engine behavior: Carbon buildup near all of those extra electrodes; the high-speed run may have been enough to burn it off. Of course, this also means it will come back in time - though 1000 miles would seem to be long enough for symptoms to return.

This theory isn't terribly satisfying and, of course, doesn't address the traction control light, etc.

Still, I'd change the plugs. I've used other Bosch ignition products (wire/cap sets, etc.) without problem. But my experience with Bosch plugs has convinced me they're not a good choice for many engines. A always, YMMV.

[wiswind]

Bosch plugs have been an issue in the windstar as well, from what other posters have experienced. The other Bosch products will be fine.
I would get the correct double platinum Motorcraft Plug for your year / engine.
They are rated for 100K miles, and will easily last that long.

I would also run some powerful fuel system cleaner through the fuel system.
You can try Chevron Techron (2 "treats up to 10 gallon" bottles).
BG-44 is also reported to be a good strong cleaner.
I would treat up to 3 consecutive tanks, and then change the fuel filter.....maybe after the 2nd tank of gasoline.

I am using a product called "Fuel Power", aka FP60 that is sold online by lubcontrol.
I recommend this after the stronger stuff.
This product, as well as Redline Complete Fuel System Cleaner also provide a lubricant, which will help the fuel pump and injectors.
I am using it in a "maintenance" dose, 1 oz per 5 gallons.
So a gallon of this stuff will go a long way.
http://www.lubecontrol.com/fuel.htm

My point is, after all these years, there is likely some stuff built up in the fuel system.
This will clean the injectors, valves, and cylinders.

These are 2 cheap and easy things to try, that are good preventative maintenance as well.

Take note that the EGR ports may be clogging also, they start near the EGR valve, and cylinders 1 and 4 are usually the last ones open.....

[Ron59]

The plugs have been a thought. Just hate the process of changing them. The only feature of this whole mess that makes me wonder is that the problem began right at the time I changed them, the wires, and the trans fluid. So perhaps it's not carbon build up and just electrical. But then why would a 100mph blast help so much - that does sound like carbon build up.
One thing I do know is that the electrics on this car have been a real pain.
A remaining question would be what has the traction control got to do with any of this?
Thanks for the responses so far - I will try new plugs for sure and get back to the list if it works. Any more ideas will be appreciated
Ron