Date:         Sun, 23 Jan 2000 15:32:28 -0500
Reply-To:     Scarlet Semko <damosem@BELLSOUTH.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Scarlet Semko <damosem@BELLSOUTH.NET>
Subject:      Re: Need Aerostar Help (No Vanagon Content)
Comments: To: Doktor Tim <doktortim@rockisland.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Doktor,

Thanks for the words of wisdom. I know I should, and probably will, but just
the thought of taking it to the "dealer" makes me see red. Not much confidence
with dealer folk. Most are "not" qualified to make the right call, or too
disinterested to do it right.

By the way I do have a Vanagon, and another in the garage, but the little Mrs
likes here Eddie Bower Aerostar, go figure. Anyway, fixing it is probably
cheaper than a divorce, MMMmmmmm of course I don't really know that for sure.

Thanks again,
Ron Semko
Orlando, Florida

Doktor Tim wrote:

> At 02:28 PM 01/23/2000 -0500, you wrote:
> >Sorry for the bandwith, but.....................
> >
> >My wifes Electronic 4 Wheel Drive Aerostar is having problems shifting.
> >I think it is the computer that controls the 30/70 power disbursment. If
> >anyone has knowledge or knows where I might find some help, please
> >p-mail me ASAP.
> >
> >Again sorry for the bandwith, but the Aerostar is not as lucky as us
> >regarding a list, or at least I haven't found it yet.
> >
>
> One certain solution would be to liquidate it and get a VW. Seriously, you
> should consider taking it to the Ford service center that you can get good
> word of mouth on. They will just hook up to the system with their
> diagnostic interface and can know the source of the problem in the shortest
> line to identifying the problem. Some independants will also have this
> capability.
>
> Trying to find a mechanic skilled as you require is no different from any
> other service need.  Get some character references. Without that, the fear
> of being sold a new tranny when the problem was actually a loose vacuum
> hose will always nudge at you. Computers in autos these days are perhaps
> the lowest failure rate of any other class of parts you can name. They can
> be damaged or foul, but very rarely. Pretty spendy items to replace without
> evidence of honest, skilled inspection.
>
> Do inform us of solution when identified.
>
> T.P. Stephens aka Doktor Tim
> San Juan Island, WA