99 Windstar Idle problem

I have a 99 windstar that will occasionally quit running when idling, but will continue to run as long as I am giving it gas. This problem is sporadic and will come and go. I took it to the Ford service department for a diagnostic test. This is what they suggested:
Replace:
upper intake gasket
isolator bolts
intake gaskets
valve cover
fuel press. reg. hose
-----------------
induction flush

Seems to me a little extensive. Is this a common solution for this problem? If this will fix the problem is there anything on this list that is unnecessary? Could it be a fuel filter problem?
I have a limited budget and would like to fix the problem myself if I can.
I not an experienced auto mechanic, but do alot of my own maintenance.

VERY excessive, like $400 more than anything close to necessary to fix it. Someone wants to sell services that are neither required or adviseable.

I strongly suggest another dealer, or even an independant shop.

The REAL problem is most likely a $45 Idle Air Control (IAC) solenoid. It controls the engine idle speed during closed throttle (at a light for example). They get sticky, and don't respond to changes in engine load, which causes either stalling and/or surging.

Yes, the problem is worse during engine load i.e. the A/C running. I will try replacing the Idle Air Control (IAC) solenoid.

This repair that the dealer indicated is covered on a Ford TSB from last fall that has to do with a poorly designed PCV system related to the left bank valve cover that was designed without baffles that allows engine oil to be sucked into the manifold. Over time, this gums up the intake runners, and deteriorates the bolt isolators and upper intake gasket causing leaks. It usually is accompanied by stalling, rough running, and eventually PCM codes of P0171/P0174. If so inclined, you can remove the upper plenum and take a look at the intake manifold and runners etc. If excessive oil contamination, this would be one of your problems.
BTW, Dealers generally charge from 500-1000 for this fix if out of warranty.

The repair they describe is only required if you are getting the P0171/P0174 error codes, I'm assuming you're getting the codes since the dealer is quoting repairs from the TSB for these error codes. If you are getting those codes first check the fuel pressure regulator vacuum line, it might be completely disconnected or very loose. A new one is around $19. Also you might go ahead and change the LH valve cover as mentioned, runs around $50. The valve cover had a proper baffle but for some reason they left a small hole in the baffle. To confirm if you have the old style you can remove the PCV valve and grommet and look inside at the 5 o'clock position, if you have a hole there it's the old style cover. Also the new ones are silver where the original was black.

Here's a link that might help:

http://groups.msn.com/FordWindstar/shoebox.msnw?action=ShowPhoto&PhotoID=24

By the way, all parts for this repair are $100 or under and it isn't difficult. Here is a link to some pics of the full repair.

http://www.cartrackers.com/Forums/live/fordwindstar/1875.html

hausof5- Are you getting a check engine light? Like others have suggested, it's likely the seals are shot for the bolts that hold the plastic spacer piece to the aluminum intake manifold. This is common on the 1999+ 3.8's. They get oil soaked, swell, break down & then leak (vacuum leak). This could also be a dirty MAF sensor, leaky fuel press regulator vac hose, or just a dirty throttle & intake. You could start by spraying out the throttle area with spray cleaner to see if that helps. You could also take the top off the plastic upper intake & inspect the inside for cleanliness- but then again, if you go that far, you may as well replace all the plastic upper intake seals & gaskets & isolator bolts. If this has not been done yet to your 1999, this is probably the case.
G/luck
Joel

My 99 did the same thing about 3 years ago. Throttle Position Sensor was the culprit. Hasn't done it since. If you're not getting a code, I would change the TPS. They changed mine under warranty, so I don't know the cost of it but they are very easy to get to. They already had mine for the tranny so I just let them do that too.