2000 Ford Windstar shakes violently

CHERSPIN

MEMBER
2000 FORD WINDSTAR
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

My 2000 Ford Windstar has had gone through multiple repairs for many things, but no one seems to know what is causing the "epilepsy". The car shakes violently when turned on. It subsides a bit when driving, but you can always hear and feel the vibration. I have checked the vaccuum hose, replaced the starter, which I didn't believe needed replacing, but the car wouldn't start and that was the mechanic's solution, even though I told him the dashboard was fading in and out, replaced the rear axle, which rusted out and took it to the dealership for two other recalls. It has new spark plugs, shocks, tie rods, and I can't remember what else. The check engine light does not go on. Any idea what can be done for this heap? I replaced the transmission twice, early on. This car has been nothing but trouble.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

Does this shaking occur when standing still and the engine is running or do you have to be moving? If it isn't a misfire, one thing I've been hearing a lot about is the vibration dampers coming apart. That is the heavy metal wheel bolted to the end of the crankshaft. The pulley that runs the serpentine belt is bolted to that damper.

There is a layer of hard rubber sandwiched between the hub and the outer ring of the damper. That rubber deteriorates, then the ring is free to rotate. I don't know what that feels like but it might be something to consider if all of the common causes have been checked.