96 Escort Zetec 1.8LX Air Leak?

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Sat 9 Jul 2005 21:38
96 Escort Zetec 1.8LX Air Leak? - wrightyl
Hello all,

I've posted here before about an idle problem with my escort, the revs stick at 1500 and drop to 800 and fluctuate between the two making the idling erratic. Thought it might be a problem with the idle speed control valve, someone advised i take it off and give it a clean, which i have not done as i haven't got a replacement gasket yet.

However, i can hear a hissing noise that sounds like its coming from the inlet manifold area, yet i can't locate where its coming from. As well as the idle problem the car seems to be very hesistant when you boot it which gets worse when the car is at running temp, like its holding back a bit, i don't think its a flat spot so what i wondered was could the idle problem and the hesitation be related if there is an air leak round the inlet manifold area? The car does seem to get a bit hot as well, i've noticed the temp gauge is often in the high end of normal. Thought it might be the thermostat but the top radiator hose feels hot, so i assume its working ok? Could the head gasket be on the way out? Theres no white in the oil, which i changed today but the car does feel like its lacking in a bit of power too. I'm not sure if there is one common thing going on here causing all the other symptoms?

If anyone can help,or would like me to clarify the above, i'd be grateful!

Cheers
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Sat 9 Jul 2005 23:34
96 Escort Zetec 1.8LX Air Leak? - Railroad.
Sounds like you've identified your own problem, an air leak. This will cause all of your symptoms.

A good way to find air leaks is to spray Carburettor Cleaner or WB40 around the inlet manifold area with the engine running. When you hit the air leak the engine note will change...
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Sun 10 Jul 2005 14:25
96 Escort Zetec 1.8LX Air Leak? - wrightyl
Cheers Railroad for the reply,

I'll give it a go with the wd40 and see if i get anywhere, if i can't find it, it's off to the garage!
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