2001 Ford Windstar Ford Windstar stopping.

Do you remember the exact diagnostic fault code number?

The common mistake is fault codes never say to replace a part or that one is bad. They only indicate the circuit or system that needs further diagnosis, or the unacceptable operating condition. First wiring and connector problems must be explored, then you must consider related mechanical problems, such as a loose timing chain or worn tensioner.

When the fault code doesn't set again right away, it is often helpful to have a scanner with record capability with you while driving. When the problem occurs, you press the "record" button to take a snapshot of a few seconds of sensor data. Due to that information passing through the scanner's memory, the recording actually starts a few seconds before you pressed the button. Later, that data can be reviewed slowly to see what took place.

Camshaft and crankshaft position sensors often fail by becoming heat-sensitive, then they work again after they cool down for about an hour. It is very rare for a new sensor to do that. Problems with the wiring and connector terminals are better suspects.

On some engines, they will stall if one of those signals goes missing. On others, the engine will keep running when an intermittent signal cuts out, but once stopped, the engine won't restart if the signal is still missing. On still others, there's a 33 percent chance the Engine Computer will randomly pick the right pair of cylinders to fire at start-up. If it picks incorrectly, you must turn the ignition switch all the way back to "off", then try again repeatedly until the computer picks correctly, then the engine will run, but not at its best. That is more of a GM thing.