98 ford escort rear end problems

[patti418]

i have a 98 escort i have replace the tires on the rear end, replaced a rim on the front end, replace the outter tie rod end on drivers side it was shot. but still having problems. the rear end seems to sway on me only in rain, snow or ice, what could it possibly be running out of ideas???? please help.
thanks patti

[AltecZX2]

the back end on these cars aren't the most stable, it doesn't really sound like there is anything WRONG with the car.

Check the alignment, and the rear struts, make sure there isn't anything wrong with the rear sway bar and its bushings., You can fit up to a 205/55 tire on the stock 15in rim if you would like to go to a wider tire. Otherwise it doesn't really sound like you have a problem.

[patti418]

thanks for replying, i've had the struts checked, the car just scars me to drive at a high speed, feels like i'll lose control over it. but it's good on dry pavement. could the back brakes or e-brake have anything to do with it??

[AltecZX2]

Originally Posted by patti418

thanks for replying, i've had the struts checked, the car just scars me to drive at a high speed, feels like i'll lose control over it. but it's good on dry pavement. could the back brakes or e-brake have anything to do with it??

If they are some how off balance, maybe. How fast do you mean by "high speeds" my car feels solid at 135+, check your tire pressure?

[patti418]

i mean over 50 miles and hour. i just had tires put on the back end. the e brake don't work i thought maybe that might be stuck, but i'm gonna put new brakes and drums on the rear. i'm just scared to drive it half the time. never had a car do this.

[AltecZX2]

Are you sure its the rear? not your fromt end out of alignment or the rotors or tires out of balance?

[Davescort97]

If the emergency brake doesn't work it would give some cause to be worried about it. It controls the preset clearance of the shoes to the drum. Inspect the cables and the adjuster on the top of the shoes. If one side is adjusted correctly and the other side has too much play it would make the rear end erratic braking at speed.