Engine shut off while driving, would crank but not restart?

Tiny
JSCAMPBELL
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 FORD WINDSTAR
  • 3.8L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 51,000 MILES
The smell of gasoline was really strong. Had van towed to my house. Checked for codes, there were none. Replaced crankshaft position sensor. I found bad clips on the intake manifold rail controller and replaced them. Does not start even with a new Crankshaft position sensor.
Sunday, June 18th, 2023 AT 5:45 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Are you sure there isn't a fuel leak? If the pressure is leaking off, there may not be enough to operate the injectors.

Try this. See if the engine starts with starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it is a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, check for spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

joe
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Sunday, June 18th, 2023 AT 11:08 PM
Tiny
JSCAMPBELL
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Has spark but no gas pressure. Looked under the van and saw a fuel leak about under the driver's seat. Will not be able to get under the van until tomorrow. It appears there is a joint in that location that was subject to a recall. I do not know if the recall was ever performed.
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Monday, June 19th, 2023 AT 5:25 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
If you contact a Ford dealership, they should be able to tell you if the recall was done. You will need to provide the VIN number for them.

I did a little research for you and found there are actually two recalls related to the fuel line. One is for a retainer clip and the other is for a leak. I attached them below for you.

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, June 19th, 2023 AT 9:18 PM
Tiny
JSCAMPBELL
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I found the fuel line separated at the joint just forward of the fuel tank. There were no clips on either joint. Reattached the joint and inserted the clips. The van then started with no problems. I went to the dealership to check on the recall and they have no record of those recalls on that model. I gave them the numbers and they denied any knowledge of the recalls. Oh well, it's running now. Thank you for your assistance and I will give some money to your gofund me page later this week.
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Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 AT 5:30 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

First, you are very welcome. There is a chance they are no longer being updated on the recall because of the model year but I would think they would be able to find it.

As far as the go fund me page is concerned, that isn't required, but it is appreciated. However, please don't feel obligated.

Also, feel free to come back anytime in the future. You are always welcome here.

Take care of yourself,

Joe
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Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 AT 9:25 PM

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