2000 Windstar Won't Start, Gauges Flip, Lights Flash

[thisday99]

I have a 2000 Windstar, 3.8L, that won't start. Here are the symptoms:

*Other than a click, no sound is made when attempting to start
*Dash Lights may or may not light up when turning the key
*After attempting to start, the needles on the gauges will go back and forth from their lowest to their highest points
*the headlights will occasionally flash on and off

We tried to jump the battery, but it seemd to have a good charge. Then, I went back to where the van "died", tried to jump it again, and it started. I drove it home, turned off the ignition, and immediately tried to start it again. Nothing! Back to black dash, no lights, and gauges flipping.

Any suggestions? Battery, alternator, solenoid?

Thanks.

[wiswind]

First thing that I would do is clean and verify the connections, starting at the battery, and those cables where the connect to the starter, alternator, and the ground to the engine block and chassis.
I would guess a dirty or loose connection first.
Another thing to try is having someone monitor the voltage at the battery terminals while you are trying to start the car....when it is acting up......
Is possible that there is a problem with the battery........perhaps from being dropped during shipment.
You can also try shifting to Neutral and see if that makes a difference.....

[12Ounce]

I would replace with new (don't swap around), the fuel pump relay and the PCM power relay.