I got the error code causing the CEL to come on. It is P1383
That is "Variable Cam Timing Over-Retarded (bank 1). It appears that this feature serves the purpose of advancing the spark when accelerating and is controlled by a Solenoid operating off of oil pressure?. This would explain why car is sluggish when accelerating. Causes I found when searching were 1.improperly installed timing belt 2. dirty oil 3. bad solenoid.
Does any of the above causes ring a bell?? The local Ford Parts Dept. person could not remember ever having to replace this solenoid, so it must be rare for the solenoid to fail. The timing belt is installed properly (unless it has slipped a tooth, in which case it would run rough all the time.) This leaves "Dirty Oil". I had oil changed today even though not scheduled for several hundred more miles. Problem still there. Might take some time for new oil to penetrate solenoid and un-stick it?
I'm not sure that any of the above is the cause. Any theories or suggestions. (Car has 93,000 miles) Timing belt probably has not been replaced. I got car at 50,000 miles.Thanks.
