• Welcome Visitor! Please take a few seconds and Register for our forum. Even if you don't want to post, you can still 'Like' and react to posts.

weird problem w/ 99 windstar 3.8


94xlt4.0

Well-Known Member
Article Contributor
ASE Certified Tech
Joined
Oct 1, 2008
Messages
338
City
san diego, ca
Vehicle Year
94,90,02
Transmission
Automatic
i have a 99 windstar 3.8l that for some reason has an intermittent starting problem. it has problems starting pretty often and i know its not the battery starter or alternator cuz those have been tested and confimred good. i get in and turn the key and when it gets to the accessory position the fuel pump doesn't "prime" and the van wont start. at first all i had to do was open then close the door and arm the factory alarm. then disarm it and open the door then it would start w/ no problem. now even that doesnt work then just by turning the key forward then backwards then forwards anywhere from 10-50 it will sometimes start. does anyone have any experience with this or have any idea what it could be?
 
See if the Check Engine Light comes on with the key to Run, before or after cranking.
Check the integrity of the PCM Relay if the CEL isn't on, along with the PCM Power Diode. If all that checks good, I'd replace the Fuel Pump Relay and cross my fingers.

I'm guessing that opening/closing the door was just a thud, making the FP relay decide to work, like tapping on it.

If you have a meter, you could check for 12 volts at the Inertia Switch when the FP won't run. If power's there (@ both wires with it connected), it might be new fuel pump time. That power will only be there for 2 sec after turning the key to Run.
 
Last edited:
well the check engine light is on for another reason already (p1740 shift control solenoid and another for 02 sensor b2s2 cant remember the code). i'll check your suggestions and get back. any other ideas to check while im at it
 

Sponsored Ad


Sponsored Ad

TRS Events

Member & Vendor Upgrades

For a small yearly donation, you can support this forum and receive a 'Supporting Member' banner, or become a 'Supporting Vendor' and promote your products here. Click the banner to find out how.

Latest posts

Recently Featured

Want to see your truck here? Share your photos and details in the forum.

Ranger Adventure Video

TRS Merchandise

Follow TRS On Instagram

TRS Sponsors


Sponsored Ad


Sponsored Ad


Amazon Deals

Sponsored Ad

Back
Top