Ford Escort Spark Plug Debris in Engine

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BIG ALE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
hello i have an escort cabroilet xr3i 130 psi . i have recently been having a shuddering on acceleration so i have just replaced the spark leads but this didnt remedy it so changed the spark plugs but on doing this i have somehow broken 1 of the ceramic bits and it has fell into the engine i pulled out what i thought was all of the peices and started it up it fired up then had a cracking noise and cut out on trying to start it again it will not turn over
so if any1 that reads this has any advice on what i should do next would be appreciated
have just spoken to a friend that told me to remove the head then try to free the engine by hand and look for damge but as they are not a mechanic i am here looking for your much needed advice i just hope it aint gunna cost 2 much :(
Jan 20, 2006 at 5:03 AM
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GODBEAR839
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 77 POSTS
You should have pulled the head before ever starting it again you broke something internally i am assuming either (hopefully) something in the head or worst something in the lower end this could be anything from a piston to the connecting rod. best to take the head off and see what broke.
Jan 20, 2006 at 8:10 AM

Suggested Repair

Do not try to start the engine again. Remove the cylinder head and inspect for internal damage in the head and lower end, including the piston and connecting rod, then repair whatever is found broken.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a Ford Escort Cabriolet XR3i broke a spark plug ceramic insulator and pieces fell into the engine. After removing what they believed were all the pieces, the engine started, made a cracking noise, and then would not turn over. The expert said the head should have been removed before restarting and that something internal likely broke, possibly in the head or, worse, a piston or connecting rod. The recommended next step is to remove the cylinder head and inspect the damage.

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