richez555

My 2001 Windstar is burning oil. Ford mechanic said all but one spark plug is fouled, and suggested replacing engine for approx. $4000. Engine runs rough during heavy acceleration, but I can live with that. Is there any danger of continuing to drive with this problem? If I change the plugs regularly, will that help? Any other suggestions to get the most out of a 7 year old van with 170,000 kms?

360ci

Get a compression test done. If any cylinder is low on compression then the piston rings are gone and you should get a new engine ASAP. If compression is fine it could also be a valve issue, where a valve doesn't seat correctly due to warpage, or the most common - carbon buildup. Seafoam or Auto RX are good at getting rid of excess carbon/sludge buildup in the engine. Again, that's if your compression is OK.

Be sure to change the plugs every 40,000kms with copper tips. If you go with platinum or iridium it's a waste of money as you should change them every 40-50K kms anyway for best performance and so the plug doesn't seize into the head!

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'00 Durango R/T 360ci 290hp (modded); 138,500m
'06 Pontiac G6 GT 3.5L 220hp; 44,000m
'12 Chrysler 200 Limited 3.6L 283hp; 13,000m
'99 Taurus 3.0L 2V Vulcan 145hp; 154,300m - Traded
Amsoil in all vehicles!