I had the same problem that many other people had with their Windstar 171 & 174. I did the repair myself thanks to htp://leckemby.net/windstar/windstar01.html and (http://leckemby.net/windstar/windstar01.html and) replaced the bolts and the port seals, but held off replacing the LH valve cover.

The TSB said there should be a small 3/16" hole in the baffle inside the valve cover, but I don't see one. There was oil in the intake, so I would assume there would be a pinhole since that is the cause of the oil getting sucked into the intake.....might the hole be in a spot where I can't see it?

I doubt it was replaced since I bought the van in '02, and the TSB wasn't out until '03. Would anyone have any suggestions? I can still return the valve cover, but won't hessitate replacing it if it is truly needed. Thanks everyone, this is a great resource!!!

The TSB says the valve cover only applies to the 1999 & 2000 year models. Go ahead and return for beer money.

Ha ha ha ha!!! You're right, I missed the obvious!!! Thanks, just saved me $50!!!