The last escort I worked on had the identical problem . The solution was the distributor module had burnt out. This is the flat, black, electronic module, next to cap. Has 2-4 screws and requires dielectrical grease on the underside for isolation. Has flat bar connector which has 4+ connector pins. Car will turn over, but will not start. Replace this module for about $25-30 at most parts stores.
SOURCE: wont start
If the solenoid makes a clicking sound it isn't the ignition switch. Depends on the clicking sound, one click or rattling. Try turning on lights and trying to start, if lights go out when attempting to start, voltage problem(usually battery or bad connections).
SOURCE: Ignition Switch 89 Ford Lariat Truck
Comment by 54harley, posted on Nov 13, 2008
Jeff;
First of all before anything else, disconnect the ground battery cable. Remove column shroud by loosening the screw on the underside, selecting position "1" for automatics and manual 3 speeds, then spreading shroud open and withdrawing out of instrument panel opening by pulling up and away from the column.
If the ignition switch is out of adjustment, that will keep it from working properly. It operates by a rod through the lock actuator rack and pinion which is driven by the key cylinder. To readjust the switch, first disconnect the ignition switch connector by carefully spreading apart the locking fingers and pulling the plug apart. Now rotate the key back and forth until you can insert a 5/64 drill bit, or something equivalent, through the locking pin hole as far as possible. The locking pin hole is located on the right of the switch next to the steering column tube. Next loosen the two ignition switch mounting nuts, turn the ignition to LOCK (feel for detent), and remove the key. Now move the switch up and down along the column to locate the mid-point of the rod lash and then re-tighten the mounting nuts, making sure to tighten top nut first to minimize any rod binding. Now remove the drill bit and reconnect the electrical connector.
If you need to replace the switch, first remove the column support bracket and lower the column. Disconnect the plug, remove the two nuts, lift the switch up vertically to disengage the actuator rod from the switch, and remove.
When you install the new switch, both the lock cylinder and the ignition switch must be in the LOCK position for correct adjustment. Turn the lock cylinder to LOCK and remove the key. The new switch will already be pinned in the Lock position with a metal shipping pin. Now install the new switch by first engaging the actuator rod to the switch, and then positioning the switch on the column and installing the nuts, but only finger tight! Move the switch up and down along the column, and when you locate the mid-point of rod lash, tighten the nuts, top nut first. Remove the lock pin, reconnect the battery ground cable, and check to see that it starts properly in Park and Neutral, and will not start in Drive or Reverse. Raise the steering column back up into position, and put bracket back on. Reinstall the shroud by spreading it around the column and through the instrument panel opening, making sure that the pin on the shroud is aligned with the upper hole on the column before installing the shroud screw.
I hope this works for you. Although I've done this before, these instructions are from the Ford Truck Shop Manual, and a Haynes Repair Manual. Good Luck!!!
SOURCE: i have a 1995 ford escort. it wont turn over
If you have power then starter is good place to start checking. it sounds like a pain but , the safest wat to prevent damage is to remove starter and take to parts store,< one that will test parts > they can tell you if it's good or bad. If it is then you have it out and you are at place to get new one,< besides they ask for old one in exchange anyway>,also there is a starter relay located in service box in engine compartment,< in this box," fuse box next to battery"'is a starter relay remove it and take with you, if starter and relay are good then the ignition is the next step. Although you put the key in on column the ignition is actualy halfway down column< to get to it you have to remove cover from underside of column> the key actuates a rod to this engaging switch by pushing, < check that this is happening properly > it can fail causing nothing to starter,< if starter is good then unless something has been altered then most likely cause.
SOURCE: my 95 Ford Escort wont start, changed ignition
I would listen for the fuel pump(take the gas cap off and listen for the buzz when someone turns the key on), if no buzz or whine then have them crank the engine.If still no noise then take a hammer and hit the middle of the gas tank while the car is being started(make sure E-brake is applied)If it starts it's your fuel pump.
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