97 Escort acceleration problem

Hi, I just recently had a plugs and fuel filter replaced on my escort. Seemed to run great, but within the last week I've noticed a surging/hesitation at about 40mph. Also on acceleration from a stop it hesitates, then seems to kick in quickly.

I don't know if it's related but when I get gas there is no pressure released when I take the gas cap off.

Could it be something came loose after the fuel filter was replaced?

Help! Thanks!

Mine (95 LX) is doing that too. After some research, I pretty much think its the coil pack going bad. You don't build any pressure in your gas tank itself just in the fuel line from the pump. If there is no visible leak at the filter connections while your key is turned on and the pump is pressurized, I'd say the fuel system was fine..unless the pump is going out.

Check your new plugs for correct gap and maybe new set of plug wires might help too. Still, my money is on the sealed coil pack. I'm changing mine this weekend when I can get the part. Its about 40 bucks at autozone.

Thanks, please post if it works or not. I'll be out of town this week-end so I'll be unable to do it yet.

Also from reading other posts, it seems the mass air flow sensor might be doing it also. What do you think?

Thanks again!