1997 Ford Escort Wagon - Interference Engine?

[alsohuman]

I'm trying to find out if my 1997 Ford Escort Wagon has an interference engine in it or not. I'm approaching 120k miles, and I keep getting reminders from the auto mechanics to have the timing belt changed soon.

From what I've gathered on this forum, if the timing belt breaks on an interference engine, then I run the risk of bending the valves and/or denting the pistons.

I think the engine is a SOHC 2.0L 4 cylinder engine. Just out of curiosity, how do I tell if it's an SOHC or a DOHC?

I searched the 'net for info on interference engines on the Escort models and came up with these two sites:
http://www.troublecodes.net/tbelt/fordtb.shtml
http://www.theautoshop.com/timing.html

Both list out recommended intervals for timing belt changes. On both sites they recommend changing the timing belt on the SOHC 2.0L 4-cyl engine every 100-120k. But both sites have an exception for the model year 1997 Ford Escort, saying that the "Manufacturer does not recommend a specific maintenance interval."

Does that mean that the engine in the 1997 Ford Escort wagon has a non-interference engine? How can I know for sure? I don't mind being stuck on the side of the road with a broken timing belt, but I don't want to damage the valves and/or pistons.

[jman63]

the sohc is non interferance...i've busted a few timing belts with no problems...not sure about the dohc....if it's got one cam it's a sohc (single overhead cam).....two cams and ya' got a dohc (dual overhead cam)....hope this helps.

[cogsncogs]

Do you HAVE a tach? If not more than likely it's a SOHC! DOHC is a Zetec engine! One sure way to find out, ask a dealar-Mechanic! It shouldn't cost anything!

Originally posted by: jman63
the sohc is non interferance...i've busted a few timing belts with no problems...

I've never BUSTED a timing belt in my life! WTF, how do you drive?

Wayne

[cogsncogs]

originally posted by: alsohuman
Both list out recommended intervals for timing belt changes. On both sites they recommend changing the timing belt on the SOHC 2.0L 4-cyl engine every 100-120k. But both sites have an exception for the model year 1997 Ford Escort, saying that the "Manufacturer does not recommend a specific maintenance interval."

Yeah Ford had a few problems with that year. But since they were not considered Safety Issues (speedo's, VSS units for one thing!) , there were no recalls or recommendations. Seems they wanted that year to quietly and slowly disappear! Sorry!
I would say that 100k would prob be a reasonable time to check/change timing belt.

Wayne

[Jet-Lee]

I do mine every 60k. as for SOHC or DOHC, just look at the valve cover, does it say "Zetec" (DOHC) or "Split Port Induction 2000" (SOHC)?

[cogsncogs]

Yupp that be it! Glad you said it! Don't like foot in mouth disease!

Wayne

[cogsncogs]

Got 66k on mine, looks almost like new, but that's country drivin'. Not much citay.

Wayne

[Jet-Lee]

I also do the work myself, so I only pay $38 for the belt, and take an hour or two out of my day.