Ford Repair: 1977 Ford Econoline Van, ford econoline van, lincoln town car

Question
In addition to the above-mentioned van, we also have a 1996 Lincoln Town Car.  We had problems with it not starting last summer and have had it towed to the repair shop and had a mechanic come here, as well, only to have it start up immediately.  It has been fine all winter (we live in Phoenix, AZ); suddenly it wouldn't start again on a very hot day, so we took the van.  After our appointment the VAN wouldn't start and we had to have it towed home.  Both started fine the next day, which was cooler.  I believe it must have something to do with the heat, but mechanics are stumped, especially since the van has a carburetor and the Lincoln is fuel-injected.  Since my husband is about to begin daily radiation treatments it's important that we have reliable transportation.  Do you have any ideas or suggestions as to what might be going on?  Thank you so much!

Answer
We have to ask what the two vehicles do have in common? Could it be fuel? Do you get your fuel at the same service station? That is a start. If the answer is yes, find another gas station. It shouldn't be hard. If you are like me, you shop with the people you know and like. Second, the symptoms really sound of ignition modules and or coil failure. Both models can be tested. I would take the Towncar to the shop first. I have to assume that the van is key in transporting back and forth to the hospital. Ask the garage if they have a Genysis code reader. If their answer is no, find another. This is a fairly expensive tool, yet any mechanic/garage, will always have one. It will find the answer eventually. As far as the van goes, have the ignition coil tested. The ignition control module should also be tested. Good luck, with time and patience, this issue should be resolved. I hope everything goes well with your husbands chemo. I know this is a trying time for you and your family, and two cars that are not dependable cannot help. So have the garage focus on one. If they put their hands in their pockets, go to another. I usually don't recommend garages, but with you, I would recommend Maxi Muffler. They are not just a muffler shop, and should be able to fix you up.