Tune-ups

[jzbeaver]

What should a major tune-up on a 1998 3.8 consist of--in parts and time at a competent repair facility? Assuming no obvious problems, is there a value in going beyond just changing plugs & fiiters, and hoses and belts, if needed?

[wiswind]

Make SURE that the correct spark plugs are used......double platinumn.
Do not use any multi-pronged or otherwise fancy spark plugs as they can cause problems with the type of ignition system used on the windstar.

If your spark plug wires are original.....I would replace them at this point as well.

Check out the battery.

A can of fuel system cleaner in the gasoline tank......what has worked the best for me is Berryman's B12 Chemtool, which is also one of the least expensive.

A Power steering fluid change is advised.....use Automatic Transmission Fluid that meets the Mercon V specification.

Transmission fluid should be changed every 30K miles.......also Mercon V

Coolant should be changed, if not done in the past 3 years.

Inspect the serpentine belt.....replace if worn or cracked....
This is the belt that drives the alternator, power steering....etc.

The windstar has a timing chain, so if a shop wants to change a timing belt.....run for the door.

Not on the motor.....but worth checking.......................

Brakes should be inspected

Suspension should be inspected for extra play, tie rod ends, ball joints.

Tires checked for wear and inflation level.

[northern piper]

tagging on to what wiswind has said I'd include a fuel filter (quick job), cabin filter (even quicker job) and air filter (5 min job). You could also, assuming that your brakes "pass" consider a replacement of the brake fluid. If it's dark brown, change it up. This too is a pretty easy job assuming that the bleed valves open easily. Generally I replace my bleed valves every 2nd brake job so that they open nicely.

A full tune up with all that is mentioned here, along with a transmission fluid change, oil change, rad flush and fill are easily accomplished in a weekend's work. In my opinion, there is a lot of value in doing these relatively simple maintenance things.

Piper

[jzbeaver]

To Wiswind--

On the Berryman website, there are 4 different products called "B-12 Chemtool:"

- Gas Treatment Carb Cleaner
- Carburetor, Fuel Injector and Fuel System Cleaner
- Injector Cleaner Fuel Treatment
- Total Fuel System Cleanup

All come in 15 or 16 oz pour containers, and the first 2 also specifically say that they work for the injectors. Which do you recommend, or do you think any one of them would be good?

Thanks

[wiswind]

The one that I have been using is the "Berryman B12 Chemtool Carborator Fuel Injector and Fuel System Cleaner" #0116 on the Berryman website http://www.berrymanproducts.com/Default.aspx?tabid=140

That is the one that I see most commonly.