Ford Escort (1993 - 2000) - 97 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues

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Wed 9 Jan 2008 18:12
97 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues - The doomed
Recently was given a P-Reg Ford Escort TD that hadn't really moved for 12 months, 44k on clock.

It wouldn't start but was push-started and taken to garage for MOT, passed no problem and they reported no issues with battery (they were asked to look at it).

For a month it started on about the 3rd attempt, each time turning over slower and slower. Eventually after a good few cold morning starts it gave up. A neighbour looked at it and filled up the battery with water, gave me a jump and car drove great for a couple of weeks... then a couple of cold days and not starting first time and it doesn't sound as if it will start for many more days ahead.

Any suggestions?

Is it most likely to simply be needing a new battery (ill put a new alternator belt on anyway - heard it squeezing a little)

Edited by Pugugly {P} on 09/01/2008 at 18:24

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Wed 9 Jan 2008 18:21
Ford Escort 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues - thomp1983
certainly sounds like battery, and also the third attempt thing id check the glowplugs as a diesel should catch pretty much 1st time

chris
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Wed 9 Jan 2008 18:41
Ford Escort 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues - The doomed
Thanks Chris.

What are the glowplugs? - what should I be checking?

Ill do a google but any help much appreciated!
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Wed 9 Jan 2008 19:12
Ford Escort 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues - The doomed
Right I know what glowplugs are now - doh.

Whats best way to check them then? found some on ebay for £15 - Am i best just to replace them anyway?
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Wed 9 Jan 2008 19:16
Ford Escort 1.8 TD - Start-up Issues - jc2
Get genuine ones-Ford dealer or Halfords.
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