Running hot, noises, Codes, stalling, idle low

HEATHERER684

MEMBER
1999 FORD ESCORT
2.2L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
67,000 MILES

My ford escort zx2 1999 is stalling when I come to a stop, seems to idle really low, making a loose rattling noise in the accelerator and the clutch when shifting gears, is getting too hot quickly, the temp gauge runs up and down between cold and hot and moves quickly, After a short distance of driving the car will not start. It cranks but does not start. If I try more than twice it kills the battery. We have replaced the engine with a new/used motor, just replaced the camshaft sensor, the timing belt looks fine, but help me please I have come to a hault on what to do and my help is becoming frustrated due to the amount of problems we have run into with this car! What could be wrong with it?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Have you checked the idle air control valve? Have you checked for vacuum leaks? Are you certain the coolant is full and there isn't an air block in the system? Was the thermostat replaced? As far as the rattle, is it coming from under the vehicle? Was anything done with ignition timing when the new engine was installed? Was the new engine a direct replacement part?