Dean173

Our '88 Taurus 3.0 has started an annoying and dangerous habit of dying (engine just stops for no apparent reason), sometimes when coming to a stop, sometimes when minding our own business driving up the road.

It happens sporadically, sometimes 3-4 times in an hour, and she starts back up again as if nothing happened. Car was very recently tuned up professionally, idle adjusted, etc.

Mechanic says (rightfully) that it's difficult to diagnose because of the intermittent nature. My gut is saying fuel pump, but if that doesn't work, it would be an awfully expensive experiment.

Suggestions to diagnose this problem?

Thanks.

LunaticSVT

It may be the fuel pump....when warmed up the fuel pump can turn off sporadically due to age, wear and tear.

Also the ignition module (TFI) from that model year was under a recall for stalling problems.

There is also another TSB number:91813 Engine - Rough Idle/Hesitation/Backfire/Stalling

taco_90

This might not be the answer but I have an '87 Crown Vic that did the exact same thing. I had the pick-up sensor in the distributor replaced and all was well. Unfortunately...I also had the Ignition module changed as well and 13 months later the jobber ignition module died. Both had the same symptom...engine just died out of the blue. Now my ford gets O.E.M. parts for all electrical!

98shotoy

I had this problem way back when I owned a 86 Grand Marquis. I changed the fuel pump thinking it was that and it didnt solve the problem. THe problem ended up being the Fuel Pump Relay.....which was ALOT easier to change and cheaper. I would check the relay for the fuel pump first and then go after the fuel pump!!! The relay is under the hood in the black box near your battery. Your owners manual will tell you which one is the fuel pump relay. They all look alike in there

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Matt
1998 SHO
2004 F150 STX
2003 Explorer XLT Limited
Monroe, MI

I'd rather be judged by twelve then carried by six