Buying a 98 Windstar - What to watch for?

I'm looking at buying a 1998 Windstar with around 120,000Km (75,000Miles) on it. I know three people that have 98 Windstars with similar mileage, and they are all happy with their vans. Is there anything in particular that I should look for that may be wrong with these vans? I'd like the 3.8L engine, but the 3.0L will do in a pinch. Thanks all.

Watch out for head gasket leaks! Any of the Windy's with over 100,000 WILL develop a head gasket failure.

If it's original owner make sure all the routine maintenance has been performed, especially coolant and transmission fluids.

My advice? Get a minivan that isn't a Windstar.

The '98 is not involved in the "TSB" for oil in the intake that is discussed a lot here.
One thing to check (in addition to the normal stuff) is to remove the oil fill cap.....and see if there is any milky buildup there.....this would be a sign of possible coolant getting into the oil (a common symptom of head gasket).
If it is in good shape, I would change ALL fluids.

1. Tranny MUST use Mercon V.....an auxilary cooler is a great investment.

2. Power steering....Tends to get cooked on the Windstar....Do NOT use "Power Steering Fluid"...will need "Type F" or Mercon (Not Mercon V) fluid....depends on the year....I think '98 uses Mercon...but verify.

3. Coolant.....Do not use "Dexcool" The standard yellow/green ethyline - glycol is fine.

4. Engine oil..a good 5W-30

5. Brake Fluid....The FORD specs call for a dry boil point of 550 degrees, which is higher than the standard DOT3 or DOT4. The FORD fluid meets these specs.

From some of the postings, apparently some '98's had a problem with the pneumatic actuators for the Intake Manifold Runner Control. The '98 was the last year that used 2 pneumatic actuators on the 3.8. Approx $200 each.