2000 Ford Escort Rough Idle at Start

2000 FORD ESCORT
66,677 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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VJFOSTER
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My 2000 ford escort sometimes at start idles low if though its not getting enough fuel it throw smoke out the exhaust for about 30 sec to 1 minute but clears up once i drive it or hit the gas a few times. It doesnt alway occur. just sometimes. I recently changed the coil pack and wires and plugs are about 4 month old. What could it be? I only notice the smoke when its idleing rough and low in mornings. Its now running hot. It just idle low and rough sometimes. What could it be?
Nov 24, 2008 at 9:49 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Do you have a check engine light ?

Check the idle air control motor/valve, coolant temperature, throttle position, and mass airflow sensors-to include a fuel pressure check.
Nov 24, 2008 at 10:57 PM
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VJFOSTER
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I have No service engine light. The car idles rough for about 15-30 seconds and just clears up but sometimes when its real cold outside it does it little longer.
But i just started experience the temperature guage moving a little to cool to a little before mid way of the guage when i drive it. Another question is can a car have a blown head gasket without running hot or having milky oil or no white smoke while driving.
Nov 26, 2008 at 5:55 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Try replacing the thermostat and for the blown headgasket it will run hot and overheat-Best thing to do is get it block and pressure tested.
Nov 27, 2008 at 4:44 PM
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