po171/174 save $

After checking this forum, I am amazed at the number of people experiencing these codes. I just completed the fix as recommended by a TSB. I spent many months previously researching this problem. Apparently, the aftermarket manufacturers are also starting to catch on that this is a big problem. All of the parts listed in the tsb are a must for a proper fix-starting with the poorly designed valve cover. I have found a kit online that contains all parts necessary for the fix. There were a couple listed on ebay but one of the suppliers had problems with the orders. I got mine from midway auto supply and it is listed as a "valve cover repair kit." No, I am not the president of this company, I just want to pass this information along. The Ford dealer wants close to $200 for parts sold separately. The quality seems good and I will keep you posted of any problems.

I am not a mechanic or an expert, but I would highly recommend fixing this problem if you have codes 171/174. If your valve cover is the one in question (tsb), you will have to fix this anyway. When I pulled of the plastic manifold, it was as though I had struck oil! It took me a good while to thoroughly clean. It was bound to lead to more problems.

Also, I keep reading stories of people taking these vehicles in to a shop and the mechanic starts throwing parts (and your money) at it in order to fix the problem. I did the same with my mechanic, who is as honest as the day... but was unaware of the tsb relating to the 171/174 codes. Use this forum, do your homework, and advocate for yourself, because you know your vehicle better than anyone.

I got mine from midway auto supply and it is listed as a "valve cover repair kit."

Looks like they're out of stock as well, until mid-June at least.

Funny how Midway Supply and the ebay sellers promote this as a kit for 99-2003 Windstars when the valve cover redesign only applies to 99 and 2000 Windstars and the new fuel pressure regulator vacuum line only applies to 2002 and 2003 Windstars. Still a good price if you needed everything.

I performed the repair using these parts 6 weeks ago. I have not had any problems since. It took about 3 1/2 hrs to do. I highly recommend doing this if you are seeing these codes. I was quoted about $450 to perform this repair by a local shop. I saves big $$$$ by doing it myself.

Eric

The original isolator bolts were manufactured with materials non-resistent to oil. The flaw is in the valve cover. Replace it. And the bolts.

http://leckemby.net/windstar/windstar01.html

I finished my repair today. No more codes. Take your time. It's easy.

Matthew