Two problems related to engine head gasket failure have been reported for the 1997 Ford Windstar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Failed head gasket led to a piston rod shooting through the oil pan. Very dangerous for the cars behind me as oil was shooting over the highway. Slippery for cars following, and went on other cars paint and windshields. Head gaskets were recalled in previous 3 years of vehicles 1993-96 Ford Windstars, 1997 was not on a recall even though the problem was never correctly fixed. Highly dangerous and highly irresponsible of the automaker to not include additional cars in the recall effort.
Mechanic states that vehicle has a history of head gasket failures in prevoius years.