just got my old mans Mk3 Escort 1.6CVH carbed motor running for the 1st time since we had it. the engine is now starting easily. it idles at 500rpm, sounds lumpy as fook, even when you rev it.

somethings not good on it. you put your foot down on the accelerator and it doesn't pick up for ages and its not revving cleanly.

i'm just after some basic things to check. for a start, it has really old petrol in, that doesn't help. i slackened off the dizzy and moved it around a bit, it made no difference to engine revs. took the dizzy cap off and cleaned up that and the rotor arm.

i'm thinking the super low idle has something to do with the problem.

the head was supposidly rebuilt before we got it. i think the timing is wrong. can you adjust the tappets? if so, whats the cleances?

any ideas welcome. i'm well chuffed now its running.

Tom.

 

Tappets are hydraulic mate so cant adjust them. Adjust the tickover on the carb then see what its like when it warms up, timing could be out dont forget its been stood for a year and the oil needs to circulate back round the engine

 

can you tell me where on the carb is the idle control screw?

i've checked the plugs, they seem fine

 

if its the same as my old 1.8 CVH then its just under the air filter, shove your hand down under the filter and between the throttle cable, you should just be able to see it.

 

What carbs on your escort???

 

Dont assume here mate.
If in Doubt get plugs/Rotor/Leads/Cap. For what they cost you can then be SURE THESE are 100%

 

Lees got a point there might want to get a new fuel filter aswell. Dont forget when petrols been stood for over 2 months it seperates

 

just had the rocker cover off. there is a slight build up of cream on it, and also in the breather pipes.

i assume the headgasket has gone? or could that be from where its been sitting?

 

that could be condensation from the car just sitting around,it may take an hour or two to start clearing itself out,

 

yeah, was kind of hopeing thats what it was. i've noticed its only running on 3 cylinders which solves the shite running i think.