1996 Ford Escort WON'T START BUT EVERYTHING COMES ON

Hi Brian

Check your positive terminal is clean and tight, after this tap the starter gently with a block of wood or the handle of a hammer to give it a gentle mechanical knock, if car now starts it's quite likely the brushes are worn out in the starter, do the bearings while service being done especilly the drive end.
If you leave it too long the armature will become damaged and starter will not be viable to repair and require replacing.

Regards Don

New Zealand