It's been a while, but I'm back for more good advice. My 98 windstar has been giving me a few problems. At times it would simply shut off and not want to start. i had to soak a rag with some gas and place it between the air flow mass and air cleaner to get it started. I've already determined that the fuel filter or fuel pump are not the culprits here. Today I drove my WS to work and as I was coming home this evening, I suddenly heard a loud thumping noise coming from under the hood while I was doing about 60 mph. I had a heck of a time getting to the slow lane because of the congested traffic. I then decided to get off the freeway and put the WS in neutral but it seemed to be in drive and moving slowly. i managed to get to a parking lot at an auto zone.I looked under the hood and noticed that there is a cable which goes into the transaxle which seemed to be pulled out about an inch as I could see where this cable was clean and shiny unlike the rest of the engine under the hood. I checked the transmission fluid and there seemed to be plenty but was very light and clear in color and seemed to hav a little odor to it.Anyone have any idea what I may be looking at to get it fixed? I've had this WS for almost ten years and has been a great vehicle for us, so I'd really hate to get rid of it.thanks for any and all help and ideas you all may have.