01 Windstar hesitating under load, low speed

[spugeddy]

Sorry to post the same problem, but I don't have much time to read all the threads, and was hoping for some expert advice.

I have a 2001 Windstar (160K miles). I did the P0171/? whatever fix 2 years ago. Worked great, problem was solved. Now I am starting to have the exact same symptom of the car hesitating when under load, or low speed for a gear, unless you give it a lot of gas, and possible down shift (like going up a hill) I put on new spark plugs about 2 years ago (100K type) and had no problems until recently.

Gas mileage is dropping 3-6 MPG.

I have read DPFE sensor could cause this condition, and maybe a vaccuum leak, or bad coil. I plan to look over it this week, but before I start throwing money at it I was hoping to get advice.

I have no CEL lights on, and it doesn't happen that frequently since I live in FL and there are no hills. But, this is how it started last time eventually leading to more frequent hesitating...

Advice, thanks in advance.

[wiswind]

You are correct, Coil pack seems to show up in posts as a issue for around your year.
Plug wires and fuel filter are a couple of other items.
Double check for any signs of cracked, disconnected or otherwise damaged vaccum lines, giving that PCV line a good look.....and making sure that the breather line from the rear valve cover is connected at both ends.

Fuel pump relay also shows up in posts for around your year.
Let's hope it is not a weak fuel pump......eliminate the other, cheaper, easier as well as routine mainenance items first.

[Ron AKA]

Had a vehicle that was doing exactly as you describe. It turned out to be two of the six spark plug wires were bad, and not that old. Check each one end to end with an ohm meter for resistance.