What can cause stalling at high speeds?

1993 MERCURY VILLAGER
200,000 MILES
Avatar
BYRDE5
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
The van starts and idles fine and shifts fine while driving. At low speeds it will get up and go without a problem except until it gets around 40mph or higher. I can be accelerating or holding the gas steady anywhere from 40mph or higher and it will be fine then it starts stalling almost as if it's misfiring.

If I check the speedometer while holding the gas steady the needle starts to drop showing I'm losing power. If I push down on the gas the transmission kicks into overdrive to compensate but once I let off it will stall out again. Sometimes I can push on the gas and let off a few times for it to hold power until it stalls out again. If I drop below 40 though in areas that are 35mph speed limit, it runs perfectly fine. Also the check engine light does not come on while it stalls.

What areas should I be looking into first?
Jun 12, 2012 at 9:26 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 75,992 POSTS
Check the fuel pressure if its within specs with and w/o the fuel pressure regulator and also the transmission for slippage
Jun 12, 2012 at 9:46 PM
Avatar
BYRDE5
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
How do I test it? I am a simple weekend DIYer :(
Jun 13, 2012 at 12:00 AM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 75,992 POSTS
Get a fuel pressure tester and hook it up on the fuel rail test port
Jun 13, 2012 at 8:32 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.