My daughters 2000 Focus SE manual transmission all of a sudden started driving sluggish and when she stopped the car it won't start. I can hear the fuel pump when i turn the key, and put a little gas in the carb to see if it would start but no fire. How do I check to see if the plugs are getting fire? Just changed them not long ago along with new wires. Was also thinking it could be the timing belt. Anyone got suggestions.

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To check for spark pull a wire off the plug, insert a screwdriver and hold it about an eighth of an inch from a ground and crank the engine over. To check the timing belt remove the oil filler cap and look in there as someone cranks the engine. If the timing belt is all right you should be able to see the valve train moving. No movement--broken timing belt.