Please help 98 escort wont run

I have a 98 escort 2.0 wont start.. I have recently had the timing belt changed.this fixed the problem the first time.After a month I was driving it and it all of a suddin died. Got it home checked the timing belt Ok. Replaced the ignition module and plugs because the spark was a orange color still wont start. After replacing the crankshaft sensor the car will start after a few times, but you have to hold the pedal halfway down. and makes a type of grinding noise coming from the motor. :banghead:

Check the damper bolt, damper and key plus ensure that the timing marks are still in alignment.

Checked damper and Key. Marks are still aligned

Do you have a fuel pressure problem? Can you hear the electric pump do its thing when you turn the key? Does fuel squirt out from the schrader valve? Is the fuel cut-out switch tripped? Filter clogged?
If you are certain timing is correct and have already addressed plugs/wires, that narrows things down quite a bit.
A bad crank sensor could prevent starting. Plugged up air filter possibly could... but it would have to be really bad.

Does the engine chug at all like it wants to start, or does it just turn and not really even try?

Grinding noise could be from some bearings somewhere. Remove the serpentine/accessory belt ? Noise go away ?

Grinding noise could also be the starter grinding the flywheel... but theoretically that noise would be unbearable and make you shut it down like, two seconds before you started it.

Turns over and thats about it.I Have fuel pressure, the pump comes on and gas comes out of schader valve. cut off switch is on.I replaced fuel filter and air filter two weeks ago. also the crank sensor is new.Grinding noise has was starter replaced starter. still no start.I have also done a compression check. any ideas would be helpful.

DO a compression check... maybe bad rings or head gasket.

I Have done a compression check! I have good compression on all four

Turning out to be a real mystery.

If you have spark, air, fuel, but no-start, then you either have to hook it up to a computer readout -or- start throwing parts at it. Make sure all the sensors, MAF, etcetera, are still firmly plugged in.

It's not an interference engine which is the only reason we didn't suggest a compression test before. But at this point it was certainly game as well.

It's probably something simple. Check the fuses ? Ensure that all the modules have power ? But then, there shouldn't be any spark in that case. Hmm... real mystery. Unless one of the real braniacs or experienced folk jump in here, may have to break down and pay for a tow + diag. ($$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ !!!!! and nevermind the actual repair)

Use a noid light and check if your getting power to the injector. You can use a paper clip and a 12 volt test light. Put paper clip on one side of plug and metal tip in other side. The light should blink when cranking.

Check ground top left of transaxle. Check for a computer ground close to computer.
Use a gage and check fuel pressure.
http://www.autopart.com/tools/toolsmain/tool/T_3440.htm This is a picture of one.

You have verified spark, fuel, compression and timing... still no go.
I am not sure if an improper gap setting on the plug would keep the car from starting, but if you didn't check the gap I suppose it is worth a try.
If you only checked for spark at one cylinder, check the others.

If that still doesn't lead anywhere, the problem is going to have to be related to the fuel injection. DId you check all your fuses already?

Just a thought... make sure all your connections at the alternator are good too.

I've used a can of starting fluid and started vehicles. If it starts with starting fluid its a fuel problem. Just spray close to the intake but don't spray the air flow meter. Have somebody else try to start as you spray.

The problem was a crack in the intake. welded intake car runs like a champ now. thank for all the help.....

Mucho thanks for the feedback. That might be the first case of a cracked intake - but now we know of it.

Are the intakes plastic on that vehicle ?

Interesting. Thanks for posting back.