Just picked up a rough 1990 Escort wagon for $60. First the lateral links(?) for the rear suspention are shot, atleast 2 of them any way; speedo doesnt work; runs like crap; drivers door handle is broken off. Now the most important are the links b/c its not very pleasant to drive right now and then get it to run better to pass echeck. Any tips, problem areas, or advice for these cars would be great. My brother had a 93 sedan which was a good car so I hope I can fix this one up to be a daily driver.

Just tackle one problem at a time, and if you need assistance with any one of them, bring your question here. Try not to group a lot of questions into one post though... try to separate them by topic... you will get the best responses that way.

First things first. Replace the bushings in the lateral links of the rear suspension. Change the ignitiion wires and the spark plugs. If it is an automatic change the transmission fluid. If it is a standard shift leave the transmission alone. It should be all right. Put 32 lbs. of air in the tires. Inspect the brakes. Change the air filter.
Have the battery load tested. Replace the timing belt. Check hoses and accessory belt. If it has been sitting run it for about a half hour then change the oil and oil filter. Clean the battery terminals. Change the coolant.
Like mightymoose22 says: Take it one step at a time. Btw how many miles are showing on it?
Check the cable on the speedometer. If you tire of fixing her up take her to the boneyard. They would give you at least $150. If you hate working on a car forget all of the before mentioned advice and do this. If it aint broke don't fix it.

Well tranny started slipping and fluid was burnt, lateral link was rusted in 2, all kinds of noises comming from the serpantine sys, and oil is milky. Decided to salvage it for $300. Kind of wanted another project but this was too much. made $200 though :cool: