there is a 1990 aerostar I'm looking to buy it's a 4.0 and the owner says sometimes while driving, it just shuts off. any ideas of what it may be so I can know what I'm getting into? Anyone have this problem before??

Thanks!

 

Mine was a alt going bad. When I rebuilt the thing it stopped.

It never stopped for long, but it would just die going down the road. I would check that and all the connections.

 

It could also be the Ignition module. I just had mine replaced when it was doing the same thing.

 

Are those items expensive to fix?? Also I wondered if it's expensive to get a new steering column.. it doesn't match! The van is an EB edition so the interior is tan and the steering column is gray!! where would I find one?

 

I spent about $600 at the dealership. You can do it yourself for cheaper.

 

If it stops while driving, I'd suspect the ignition module. Ford recalled all vehilce with the distributor mounter module in California, but not nationwide. If your module is remote located (radiator or passenger side wheel well) then you are good. If it is mounted directly to the distibutor, you might want to consider having it "fixed". Hope this helps.

 

Here are some of the prices I pulled off fordparts.com for you.

ALTERNATOR, Aerostar, 4.0L, 60 Amp 1990 $257.85

ALTERNATOR, Aerostar, 4.0L, 75 Amp 1990 $322.05

ALTERNATOR, Aerostar, 4.0L, 80 Amp 1990 $218.24

As for the ignition module I would say the price is still reasonable and also a lot cheaper then the alternator although you could go aftermarket on the alt the module is not too diffcult to replace either here is the price.

IGNITION MODULE, Aerostar, 4.0L 90-91 $91.67

</TD>

 

pull the codes and see what you get before assuming anything. no start can be alot of things timing,starting system (battery,cables,etc..) fuel system (fpr,pumps,lines,injectors,etc..) quite alot

 

IS CORRECT. In '98 or '99, I beleive, I received a notice from Ford stating this, requesting I make an appointment with my Ford dealership Service Dept. This was on a 1987 Aerostar, but done at no charge to me, inspected and fixed. They even rotated my tires, no charge and performed a safety inspection on future maintenance work needed. Very pleasent dealership experience, because usually dealerships won't give you the correct time of day concerning Ford vehicles over 10 years old. This is an original California certified Aerostar XLT. Also, those who said it's the ignition module are undoubtly 99% correct with these "shut off" symptoms. I might add checking and replacing all of your cables, + and - with a quality 2 or 1 guage replacement. You would be amazed at how this minor replacement of the factory's 4 guage cable makes a world of difference, for your starter, battery, alternator, and entire electrical system/ Crisp starts, including bright, BRIGHT headlights, dashboard lights, bright back-up lights and turnsignals that flash with authority. You might laugh at me, it's okay, but something to consider especially if you have 120K + miles on the clock...
ALSO, one more thing. Those of you who purchase a Ford vehicle (any type) USED, send your name, address, year and make of vehicle, and most importantly, the VIN # to Ford's Corporate Headquarters, as well as if you move. If there is ever a TSB, recall, etc. Ford Motor Company will contact you, if they have your Ford product on file with them. Ed