1991 Ford Escort Engine won't turnover

j2lester · Posted at Tue Oct 20, 2009 1:54 pm

Electrical problem
1991 Ford Escort 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual

Car was experiencing jerky acceleration so I performed compression tests on the cylinders per manual instructions. Only disconnected spark plug wires and ECS plug so engine wouldn't start while checking compression. Compresession checked ok and engine was cranking fine. Came back later to try other test, but engine didn't crank, dash lights on, headlights worked etc. Assumed battery had gone dead during compression checks so attempted to jump start car. No joy. Installed new battery, no joy. Jump started WITH new battery no joy. Haven't attempted to start it by pushing it and engageing clutch for lack of assistance. There is no sound when the key is turned to start, dashboard lights all on, a few relay clicks here and there, but no starter engagement or cranking. nothing. Rechecked electrical connections multiple times, all connections are in place.

Jolena2370 · Posted at Sat Nov 07, 2009 10:43 pm

Have you checked you starter solenoid? that would be where I would start. then I would check the starter. If you have any questions please feel free to e-mail. Thank you

j2lester · Posted at Thu Dec 03, 2009 1:03 pm

Jolena2370 · Posted at Thu Dec 03, 2009 8:19 pm

Please describe to me how the starter works without a starter solenoid. I have not yet seen one like that. I had a 92 and there was still a solenoid. If you need me to I will take a picture of one for you. I am one hundred percent that there is a starter solenoid on your car is that a 1.8/1.9L? Please feel free to E-mail me back thank you!

Steve LV · Posted at Mon Dec 07, 2009 10:47 am

"Some" starters have the solenoid built in to the starter housing... So you have to replace the whole starter whether it's the solenoid or the armature that's bad...

If it has a remote solenoid, it should be easy to find...