Car shakes when in idle, makes loud screech sound while in park and car is turned on

1998 FORD ESCORT
13,000 MILES
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TOMNKASE08
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Turns over, battery does not keep charge. I have a 1998 Ford Escort Zx2. The past couple of weeks I have been having problems with it. When I put it in park when the car is turned on it makes a loud screeching sound. It also shakes really bad when it is in idle. The battery will not keep a charge.A few days ago, smoke came from the dash board.

The starter turns over when battery is charged. We have replaced the alternator, the starter and the battery. Checked all of the fuses. If you have any idea of what it could be please write back. I will also update as to what the problem is .Thank you
Feb 5, 2012 at 11:10 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Check to make sure the belts are tight. You could have a loose alt belt that isn't charging the battery.
Feb 5, 2012 at 11:12 PM
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TOMNKASE08
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Yeah the checked the belts they are all secure. Sorry I did not put that before I have just check so many different things that I forgot about that one.
Feb 5, 2012 at 11:40 PM
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TOMNKASE08
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okay, took apart the steering wheel column and there was a wire glowing red that looks like it was about to catch on fire im thinking this is it will keep updating
Feb 6, 2012 at 7:55 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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That doesn't sound safe.
Feb 6, 2012 at 9:03 PM