1999 Ford Escort Car has a ticking noise when I turn it on

1999 FORD ESCORT
145,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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PEJXKCREW
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My car has a ticking noise that starts out accelerated and slow down after idle for about 30 secound but continues to tick. It sound like it is coming from the area of the engine. It also looses power as I drive at times and the noise seems to get louder when that happens. I know this sound crazy but I'm a single mom and can't afford to pay a mechanic. I kinda need to try to fix it myself. Atleast I can try. The oil level is good and looks clean. So I know it doesn't need oil. The AC runs but doesn't get cool. I added a charge kit but it didn't seem to help at all. Can anyone help?
Aug 12, 2010 at 6:17 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The noise sounds like a lifter ticking. However, the power loss is a concern to me. What that sounds like is the catalytic converter is loose and plugging. Start the engine and listen close to the converter for any hissing or strange sounds. Also, feel the amount of back pressure there is coming from the exhaust and let me know what you find. An exhaust leak caused by a plugged converter can make a ticking sound.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Aug 13, 2010 at 8:59 PM