1. Check the Fuel Pump Relay:
* Location: Consult your Windstar's repair manual or online resources to find the location of the fuel pump relay. It's often in the under-hood fuse box or a separate relay center.
* Testing: Swap the fuel pump relay with a known good relay of the same amperage rating (a different relay of the same type should work for testing purposes). If the problem goes away, the original relay was faulty.
2. Check the Fuel Pump Fuse:
* Location: Similar to the relay, the fuse is usually in the under-hood fuse box or an interior fuse panel. Your owner's manual will specify the fuse's location and amperage.
* Testing: Visually inspect the fuse for a blown element (broken filament). If blown, replace it with a fuse of the same rating.
3. Check for Power at the Fuel Pump:
* Access: You'll need to access the fuel pump, likely requiring dropping the fuel tank (a significant job, so consult a repair manual for specific instructions).
* Testing: With the ignition on (but not cranking), use a multimeter to check for power at the fuel pump's electrical connector. You should have battery voltage (+12V) when the pump is supposed to be running. If no power is present, trace the wiring back towards the relay and fuse to locate any breaks or corrosion.
4. Check the Fuel Pump's Inertia Switch:
* Location: Many vehicles have an inertia switch that cuts power to the fuel pump in a collision to prevent fuel leaks. This switch usually has a red button that needs to be pressed to reset. Locate it (often under the dash or in the engine bay) and check if it has tripped.
5. Check the Fuel Filter:
* Location: The fuel filter is located somewhere in the fuel line. Its location varies by year and model; consult your repair manual.
* Testing: A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow, even if the pump is working. Replace the filter if it's dirty or appears damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive part to replace.
6. Check the Fuel Pressure Regulator:
* Function: The fuel pressure regulator maintains the correct fuel pressure in the system. A faulty regulator could prevent the pump from building pressure. This often requires a fuel pressure gauge test.
* Testing: You'll need a fuel pressure gauge to measure the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications (found in a repair manual). A low reading indicates a problem.
7. Check for Fuel Line Blockages:
* Potential Issues: A blockage anywhere in the fuel lines (from tank to engine) will prevent fuel from reaching the engine. This can be difficult to diagnose without specialized equipment.
8. The Fuel Pump Itself:
If all the above checks are good, the fuel pump may be faulty. This is the most expensive and labor-intensive repair as it usually involves tank removal. You can try bypassing the pump (if you're comfortable and experienced) to see if it's the pump itself, but this is risky and should only be done if you understand the potential hazards.
Important Considerations:
* Safety: Working with fuel systems is potentially dangerous. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work. Avoid open flames and sparks. Fuel is highly flammable.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your year and model of Ford Windstar is invaluable for locating parts, testing procedures, and diagrams.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing these checks or repairs yourself, take your Windstar to a qualified mechanic. Misdiagnosis can lead to further damage or injury.
By systematically checking these components, you should be able to pinpoint the cause of the no-pressure issue. Remember to always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle.
