3.8 CEL keeps coming on

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Jan 10, 2007 | 08:26 AM

14psd

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From: troy, Mo

3.8 CEL keeps coming on

Ok I have a '99 windstar with the 3.8L (wife's). I also have a code reader. The codes are 0171 and 0174 [system too lean (bank 1) and system too lean (bank 2)]. I have checked for vacuum leaks and can't find any. I do not hear any kind of leak either. The van has 150K on it. The O2s were going to be my next adventure. I need to find out the specs on them though. I haven't checked the fuel pressure yet but the van does seem to run fine.

Jan 10, 2007 | 10:42 PM

BrianA

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From: Trussville, Alabama

I'd double check for a vac leak. Seems that is the cause of most lean codes, especially since it is reporting both banks lean.
Other possibilities:
MAF (clean it carefully)
I am not sure, but seem to remember reading somewhere that an o-ring in the intake manifild can break, causing air to enter the system and cause a lean condition. I wish I knew more about this but just can't rmember the details or where I read it.

Jan 11, 2007 | 04:03 AM

jimbeamalki

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From: Indianapolis

Go to www.automotiveforums.com , then scroll down and click on Ford, then click on Windstar. On that forum it's known as the 'dreaded 171 & 174 codes'. There are 2 listings on the first page regarding this, or you can put the codes in the 'search' area at the top and get many more listings.

Jan 11, 2007 | 01:07 PM

14psd

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From: troy, Mo

Thanks guys I appreciate the help. I'll tear into the van in the morning, and hit that site tonite at work.

Jan 13, 2007 | 01:25 PM

14psd

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From: troy, Mo

Jimbeamalki, thanks for the info for the other forum. I found exactly what I needed. I'm doing the repair now should be done in a couple of hours. thanks again!!!!!

Jan 13, 2007 | 02:01 PM

BrianA

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From: Trussville, Alabama

Well, what was the problem?

edit to add: I did look back through some old posts and it seems clogged EGR ports can cause these codes.

Last edited by BrianA; Jan 13, 2007 at 09:54 PM.

Jan 26, 2007 | 06:49 AM

14psd

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From: troy, Mo

Hey guys thanks again for your help. Great info!! It took me a couple days to get to it but like ya'll said its not difficult to do. It took me about 3.5 hours cuz I was taking my time so I didn't goof nothing up. The van is done and runs GREAT now.