Questions and Answers

Ford Escort Starts And Dies Q. I have a 1987 Ford Escort GL automatic with only 50,000 miles and it stalls. I have replaced ignition module, fuel filter, plug wires, cap, rotor, filters, EGR valve, idle speed control and a coil and it still stalls. But just recently when it stalled I checked for spark and when I cranked the motor there was no spark but it always starts back up five to 10 minutes after it stalls.

Lately since it got colder outside its been doing it more often like once every half a mile before I found out it didn't get a spark. I brought it to the shop and they found codes for EGR and idle speed. What do you think it could be and what parts come between the battery and coil that could make it not get a spark?

A. This can get a little involved. This is the ignition system from hell. When you lose spark, do you still have power on the coil (+) side? Does the coil (-) flash when you crank it?

You could have a bad Crankshaft Position Sensor or a bad Hall Effect Sensor inside the distributor. It will take a little detective work to determine which it is. I would suggest getting the service manual and the next time it happens, follow the diagnostic tree and see where it leads you.