windstar won't stay running - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

bcupac53 · 11-24-2012, 16:33

hello all, i have a 2000 ford windstar se, 3.8l, i am having a problem with the car idling, it will start, but i have to rev the engine to keep it running, after a bit, it will idle down itself and stay running, any ideas? any help would be appreciated, thanks

**360ci** · 11-24-2012, 18:52

I vote fuel pump, as I had to deal with a similar issue with my Taurus not to long ago. If it's been tuned up, and maintained regularly by a competent shop get them to do a quick fuel pressure test. There's an outlet they can connect their pressure tester to on the fuel rail in the engine bay.

If you put your window down and turn the key to the 'run' position but don't start it, you should hear a very faint 'whirrrr' sound. That's your fuel pump. If it makes a clicking sound, or the 'whirrr' sound cuts on/off then its definitely toast.

**CatSkinner** · 11-24-2012, 19:20

Try cleaning the throttle body, IAC and MAF.

**360ci** · 11-25-2012, 06:04

Catskinner, you should have seen my original post, ha. Good minds think alike as I had also included what you said as possible causes, along with a bad O2 sensor and/or cat converter. I also went as far as to say change the spark plugs and check the air intake, but the reply was so long when I was done, I wouldn't have wanted to be the one to read it all!

**CatSkinner** · 11-25-2012, 06:36

Funny, I was wondering about them, too, but I figure get the most likely causes out of the way and see what's left. Besides, I hate typing.