2001 Ford Econoline Engine cooling Problems

“The exhaust system was blowing out black smoke out the tail pipe while driving. The vehicle stalled. Consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for analysis. The mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced due to a valve cover gasket failure.”

“The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, there was a vibration of the vehicle, accompanied with a fluttering noise. This was followed by foul-smelling vapor, which entered the cab of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a service dealer, who determined that a spark plug had blown out due to a weakening of the engine head.”

“The contact owns a 2001 Ford Econoline. The contact was driving 40 MPH when the vehicle exhibited an abnormally loud backfire noise from underneath the hood area. The contact moved the vehicle from the roadway and found a small fire in the engine compartment. The contact was able to extinguish the fire and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic advised that the failure was caused by a blown spark plug that ejected from its housing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure and current mileage was 220,000.”

“Although no one was hurt and the dealer fixed the problem at no cost I wish to report this incident as a near miss . The part in question ,exhaust dampner assy is a balancer [7 to10 pound round weight] attached to the exhaust system under the vehicle . The weight is welded to a bracket which is attached to the exhaust system. …”