1997 Ford Escort

Tiny
LAURENYESLAUREN
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 FORD ESCORT
1997 Ford Escort 96,000 miles

Two monthes ago the engine acted like someone was shoving me. I thought it was bad gasoline. Went thru two tanks where I normally go and now the car dies when I stop at lights or stop signs, backing out of parking spaces, pulling away. Ugh. I am replacing the air filter, got a new fuel filter for a mechanic to replace. Any other suggestions? It just dies when I am not giving it gas, it does start right up, but a pain to keep doing this.

Thanks,
Lauren
Monday, September 1st, 2008 AT 1:56 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
DSPLC
  • MECHANIC
  • 220 POSTS
Since you are accepting suggestions and
your problem is only on idle.
Check/replace your PCV valve ($6), this is a small round black plastic thing beside the number 4 exhaust (with a motorcraft sign on it). Before replacing, make sure it is connected. Mine disengages in the hose once in a while so I put a clamp on it. Careful, exhaust manifold is hot.
Another suggestion, check the IAC (Idle Air Control) valve. This is the 1.5 inch black cylindrical thing with wires located on the very top of the intake manifold on the right side (driver's side). Clean it or let the mechanic check if it is working.
Another suggestion, make sure all vacuum hoses are connected.
Also use one bottle of fuel injector cleaner or one bottle of complete gas treatment. Add it to your fuel tank before filling it up with gas. Walmart have it.
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008 AT 1:25 AM
Tiny
LAURENYESLAUREN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I replaced the PCV valve yesterday and still the same chug and stall, also put in a new air filter. Today I am changing out the plugs. Next are the plug wires, then the fuel filter. Going in order of hard to do items.I am not a backyard mechanic, but have done a few things.

Thanks for the advice, I will look into the other things you memtioned.

Lauren
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008 AT 6:55 AM

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