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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,456
Hard-core CEG\'er
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Hard-core CEG\'er
Joined: Oct 2004
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If the car was Not purchased as-is (like from a dealer) they should have some guarantee. Just a thought.
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Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 7,100
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 7,100 |
DTC 1383 is a check of the VCT UNIT. Testing procedures should not include electrical checks of any kind.
Engine will idle rough, hard starting and may stall.
[list]
Cam Timing improperly set
CONTINUOUS oil flow to the VCT piston chamber
VCT soleniod valve stuck open
Camshaft advance mechanism binding (vct unit)
The first step in repair/troubleshooting would be to verify proper camshaft timing. If this is something that you feel up to doing, then you should begin this process at home. If this is something that you feel is over your head, you should very well have a shop do this for you.
If the timing is incorrect, retiming the camshaft will need to be done.
If the timing IS correct, then the camshaft advance mechanism is seized (unable to adjust), or a culprit affecting this is to blame. (see causes above)
Either way, this answers your question as to how that would cause the starting problems, and how to fix it. If you decide to undertake this operation on your own, I suggest you get a Ford Factory CD for your year of car, to walk you through it, picture step-by picture step..
PM me and I will hook you up with the directions and the guy to go to for one of those.
Good luck.
Ray
'99 CSVT - Silver #222/276
In a constant state of blow-off euphoria.
Originally posted by Kremitthefrog:
I like to wear dresses and use binoculars to watch grandmas across the street.
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14
New CEG\'er
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OP
New CEG\'er
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14 |
I have always tried to do my own work on vehicles. I think since I had just aquired this car (as-is), I was impatient about getting it fixed. In the morning, I will call the same tow company who hooked me up this morning($30) and have them bring it to my house. I will buy a starter and go from there.
Since the shop was kind enough to do the check for no charge,
and I will not be using their services at this time, should I do something to compensate their time?
2000 Contour SE 2.0 ATX 87k mi.
1970 VW Kombi
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Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 7,100
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
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Posts: 7,100 |
unless that was stated in your verbal/written agreement, then I wouldn't forsee the need to do so.
If a free check is NOT their typical procedure, you may do something to ensure further "smooth sailing" from said location on the next occurance, from whoever it was that was nice to you.
That is your call.
The starter seems, to me, to be a long shot and off base. If you want to replace that, as well, then by all means go for it... we can help with that, too.
Ray
'99 CSVT - Silver #222/276
In a constant state of blow-off euphoria.
Originally posted by Kremitthefrog:
I like to wear dresses and use binoculars to watch grandmas across the street.
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 5,345
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 5,345 |
Ray, should he scan for CEL codes first? Just in case the shop missed a code or two, or read the wrong one off the clipboard. That would pretty cheap insurance for peace of mind.
"Always do the cheap and easy ones first."
1996 V6 ATX 96K miles
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Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 7,100
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
Joined: Jul 2001
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by all means.. if the codes are, infact, still present.
Ray
'99 CSVT - Silver #222/276
In a constant state of blow-off euphoria.
Originally posted by Kremitthefrog:
I like to wear dresses and use binoculars to watch grandmas across the street.
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14
New CEG\'er
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OP
New CEG\'er
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14 |
As far as compensation, I was thinking of just cooking lunch for the guys. I have to go there anyway because it seems that when it was towed to the house there were no keys. Tomorrow: Go to shop and get keys. Get starter. Plant more peppers in garden. Get thingy to CEL.
Thanks again guys.
-Tom
2000 Contour SE 2.0 ATX 87k mi.
1970 VW Kombi
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 5,345
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
Joined: Jun 2005
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If you look through this thread, again, Rogerm60 suggested the fuel filter. Make sure you have more than 1/2 tank. You don't want to suck up the sediment from the bottom of the tank. In addition, you might want to change the engine oil and oil filter so in case there is oil contamination. http://www.fcsdchemicalsandlubricants.com/fad/tsb/9898.pdfhttp://www.fordforums.com/archive/index.php/t-37404.htmlGood luck.
"Always do the cheap and easy ones first."
1996 V6 ATX 96K miles
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14
New CEG\'er
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OP
New CEG\'er
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14 |
Just wanted to let you all know what's up. First, camshaft timing sensor. Oil in plug holes (leaky gasket), $200 total. Included tow to shop and all checks, parts (sensor, plugs, wires), and labor. Drove car 130 miles and check engine light came on. Drove back home with light, on planning to go to shop Monday. Got back in the car to go to the store and the light was not on anymore. Something fishy, or nothing to worry about?
2000 Contour SE 2.0 ATX 87k mi.
1970 VW Kombi
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Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 5,345
Addicted CEG\'er
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Addicted CEG\'er
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 5,345 |
Intermittent CEL code. If it doesn't come back again, don't worry about it. But if you are concerned, just have it scanned at Autozone for free, or buy a scanner for $50 up. Enjoy driving your Contour!
"Always do the cheap and easy ones first."
1996 V6 ATX 96K miles
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