1997 Escort low idle knock and skipping after head gasket

1997 FORD ESCORT
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FEATHERCRAFTER
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1997 Escort, 62000 miles, 2.0 SOHC. Car was running great despite the need for a head gasket. Now, after the repair, (including timing belt, etc.) plus, (had the head filled and shaved), The engine top end now has a low knock and the exhaust "pops" in exactly the same time with the knock. It now vibrates below 1000rpm. My guesses include a bent valve, timing belt installed wrong, or wrong spark plug hitting the piston and fouling. I know, I need to pull the plugs, but anyone have any thoughts? Thanks.
Oct 15, 2007 at 7:03 PM
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BLACKOP555
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 10,386 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
check the spark plugs as you mentioned and make sure their not hitting the piston. but my second guess is probably the timing belt the crank and cam are misaligned causing the valves not to open and close properly dont fun untill you look into this
Oct 15, 2007 at 8:32 PM
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