96 Escort Cranking/Start Problems

Hi my escort died on me coming home lastnite. It doesnt start, only cranks when I turn the key. I checked the spark plugs,belt seems fine and the battery is brand new. I'm not sure what else could be the problem. Can anyone help?...

Thanks Chris

just an update..my fuel cutt off button was pushed down..so i poped it back up..the car still cranks but wouldnt start

could it be the timeing belt..i checked it out..it looks fine..nuttin broken or snaped..when i crack the car..the belt does move

The fuel cutoff button is supposed to be pushed down. It is supposed to pop up on impact to prevent any further fuel flow. Push it back down.

Sounds like your timing belt is broken. You can't see the timing belt without removing some parts. The belt you see is the accessory belt and is does something entirely different.

Easy check. Get a flashlight and someone to assist you. One person crank the engine while the other looks through the oil fill hole on the top of the engine with the flashlight. If no moving parts are seen inside, the belt is busted.

I am 99% confident this is your problem just based on what you said. Expect to pay at least a couple hundred at a shop to have it replaced.

ok thanks for your reply..i'll check it out tom..is it possible to change the timing belt myself?

Very possible to do yourself... but it sounds to me like your experience level with this sort of thing is not so much. Get someone to help you and make sure you have everything you need before you begin.
Changing the belt is simple... but lots of parts have to come off to access the belt, and if you mess it up you won't know it til you get it all back together. Then it all has to come off again to fix it...

heres a update..the mechanic vierified it is the timing belt and it well cost $340 to change..is that price resamble?

If that price includes changing the water pump, which is standard when changing the timing belt, then yes, I would say the price is reasonable.

ok..hes gonna replace the timing belt/tensioner and waterpump with brand new ones for $420 with labour, i think thats the ceapest around