losing idle when cold

1998 FORD ESCORT
56,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • MANUAL
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Six months ago I did a service on my car and I also changed the serpentine belt. The car lost its normal idling. When cold it cuts off in the first start. Once it has warmed up it drives smooth. What can be problem?

Thank you.
Gaba
Oct 5, 2017 at 5:22 AM
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It sounds like one of two things is happening. First you could have a vacuum leak causing the engine to stall at idle.

Here is a guide to confirm the problem.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Next is the timing belt is off a tooth which will cause the same thing.

https://www.2carpros.com/diagrams/ford/escort/1998

Please double check your marks and get back to me

Please let us know what you find.

Cheers, Ken
Oct 6, 2017 at 3:09 PM