1997 Ford Escort Starting

AEBOI80

MEMBER
1997 FORD ESCORT
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
112,000 MILES

Sometimes when I turn the key to the start position I have to hold it there for several minutes before the engine begins to attempt to turn over. Also sometimes when when it starts to turn over and I release the key back a position it continues to try and turn over even though the key is not in the start position any more. It will usually attempt to do this for 30 - 60 seconds and then it will stop. Sometimes it does that when the engine has actually started running, but it always stops after 30 - 60 seconds.

It is especially problemsome in cold weather. I thought it may be the starter solenoid, but I am not sure. Any thoughts?

3 Replies

RACEFAN966

MECHANIC
5,029 POSTS

Ok I am thinking that maybe we have a starter relay problem. Now before we can test it I need to know if you have a digital multi meter? Get back to me and I will walk you through testing it so we can figure out what is going on.

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Thursday, April 29th, 2010 AT 9:36 AM

AEBOI80

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2 POSTS

Yes, I do have one.

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Thursday, April 29th, 2010 AT 11:33 AM

RACEFAN966

MECHANIC
5,029 POSTS

Ok the starter relay is behind the left side of the instrument panel. Once found you need to check to see if there is constant power term 86 or the blue wire with the red stripe. Now check term 30 red wire with white stripe for power when you put the key in the start position. Let me know what you find.

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Friday, April 30th, 2010 AT 9:38 AM