Noise while moving

[TecChic]

My sister's car started running funny last week. First it was loosing power/hesitating sometimes when trying to accelerate while driving. Much like what my van did before the fuel pump went out. It has since gotten worse and started making a loud noise (she didn't know how to describe the noise) but only while driving, with or w/o foot on the gas and after it's warmed up. Any suggestions????
Big Thanks ahead of time!

[mightymoose_22]

Hard to say without a better description.

I'd start by looking for a vacuum leak. Check the hoses at the top of the intake manifold for cracks, especially the elbow there. Intake manifold gasket may be leaking... there are a variety of ways to check this.

Also... make sure the plug wires are fully seated... and if it has been awhile, maybe consider changing the plugs and wires.

More info would get you a better response.

[TecChic]

Sorry.... It's a 99 escort, all fluids, plugs and wires appear fine. Check engine light did come on previously. I ran carb cleaner through it before it began making the noise. It appeared to help because it wasn't bogging down while trying to accelerate anymore. Even after running better the engine light was on so I disconnected the negative battery cable to see if it'd reset. After re-connecting, the engine light remained off. It then began acting up again after only a couple of days and now makes the added noise after warmed up while the car is moving. The car has more than enough power after first starting it. It takes off on it's own when foot isn't on the brake. I have not heard the noise yet. I gave my sis a few words to pick from to best describe it. For what it's worth, She chose "grinding, maybe" and "like metal, kinda".
Hope that describes the prob a little better. Thanks Again!