1998 escort sport ZX2 ran good until it stopped and now just cranks not even tring to fire.

ford escort/ focus engine 2.0 l spi sohc 1997-2004 has been identified as an intereference engine and that means very likely valve to piston damage
( auto data timing belt information )
note-- up to 2002 year Ford has not recommended a timing belt interval for changing
Ford has however recommended a replacement every 120.000 miles using the service history as a guide
however good professional trade practice recommends every 60.000 miles ( 100.00klms) and the replacement work should include replacement of the crank and cam shaft seals and idler pulleys involved ( the biggest destroyer of belts is oil)
recommended labor time is 2 hours
if the belt has broken then head removal and valve work will add up to 5 hours to that time

The 98 Escort is actually a Mazda 323 with Ford trim. It uses a solid state flasher relay for both turn signals and hazard lights.
The relay is behind the speedometer. My guess is the relay has died.
You can look it up online or check with your local auto parts store to get a visual.

Hi Vivian:
Model ESCORT ZX2 Engine L4 2.0L 1989cc 121ci GAS FI N 3




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No fire ? Maybe crank sensor.

1998 Ford Escort ZX2
2.0 liter DOHC L4 VIN "3"


http://autorepair.about.com/library/firing_orders/bl-fo-4581.htm

if you have a no spark scenario i would check your crank sensor located at the top left side of the harmonic balance pulley.the crankshaft (about 11'oclock) a 2 wire plug with a sensor on it check to see if it is damaged or unsecured. this sensor can cause no spark if not working correctly. This sensor is based of frequency not voltage testing is difficult, just make sure that there isnt too muck air gap. and that it is secured.Lastly may want to check timing possible that the belt has jumped some teeth and she has fallen out of timing. maybe a bad tensioner The coil will adapt i think up to 10 degree, ****** or advance. Good luck

Here it is. 13mm wrench to rotate tensioner

Check your spark plugs for spark, and fuel delivery

1) Start with the alternator.
2) Forward to the smooth idler
3) Forward to power steering
4) Down to A/C compressor
5) Back to crank pulley
6) Forward around tensioner
7) Back glancing off of water pump
8) Back glancing off of ribbed idler
9) Up around alternator (where you started)
Good luck!

check the MAP sensor and vaccum to the MAP sensor