I now break escorts and mainly GTI/RS2000 models and the main cause for me breaking them is the owners give up on them due to chassis rail rust and rear wheel arch issues,I was lucky with mine as I dont have this issue but then again I would have not bought it if it did,but yes its very common and for some reason the RS2000s are far worse than any other escort for some reason,as for bottom arms I suggest you dont buy these cheapo ones from motor factors or ebay as they are pure rubbish and wear out mega fast,go for genuine ford around £50 a side but you wont regret it,hope it helps matey