95 Aerostar troubles
New User
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 13
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From: la verne
95 Aerostar troubles
95 Aerostar with 3.0 just won't start. I have pulled the plugs and they are wet with gas, so I am getting fuel to the cylinders. I have pulled the plug wires and tested them, and I am getting spark to the plugs. Cap and rotor is new. What else could I be missing and what can I check next. The engine cranks slow and acts like it is trying to catch and start. Both battery and starter are new also. I hope someone has some good ideas, and Happy New Years to all.
FTE Community Team
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,839
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From: Oak Harbor, Washington
95 Aerostar troubles
Worn cam gears and jumped timing chain?
With distributorless ignition, the ignition will fire at the correct time, but the valve timing will be retarded.
Just a WAG. I don't know if the 3.0l & 4.0l are known for timing chain issues like the old V8s were.
Regards,
Al S.
With distributorless ignition, the ignition will fire at the correct time, but the valve timing will be retarded.
Just a WAG. I don't know if the 3.0l & 4.0l are known for timing chain issues like the old V8s were.
Regards,
Al S.
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 107
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95 Aerostar troubles
Had a 3.0 in my 87 Aero... took it apart at 150K to "freshen" up the timing chain, oil pump, etc, and found the chain and gears to be pretty good. Not like the old V8s of the 60's and 70's. Only way to be sure is to put a timing light on it and see if the plugs are firing at the right time.
Given all the problems that the 3.0 has had with the electronic ignition module (called the TFI - "thin film ignition"), I'd really suspect this is your problem. I know you have spark, but may be weak and sporatic. The TFI's can have a mind of their own.
You say you replaced the dist cap and wires... double check your firing order... hate to admit it, but I've put them back together out of time... :-(
If all else fails, get back to the basics... check the fuel rail pressure (your pump may be failing/weak), check your timing, and make sure your spark is good.
Good luck. Happy New Year!
Ken P
Given all the problems that the 3.0 has had with the electronic ignition module (called the TFI - "thin film ignition"), I'd really suspect this is your problem. I know you have spark, but may be weak and sporatic. The TFI's can have a mind of their own.
You say you replaced the dist cap and wires... double check your firing order... hate to admit it, but I've put them back together out of time... :-(
If all else fails, get back to the basics... check the fuel rail pressure (your pump may be failing/weak), check your timing, and make sure your spark is good.
Good luck. Happy New Year!
Ken P
