Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Maintenance & Servicing Zetec Running Problem

I have an ongoing problem with the 1.8 zetec in my Morgan.
It was starting without any problems but until it warmed up, the engine was fluctuating at tickover between 800 and 1100 rpm and afterwards running rich.
I checked the fault codes and have replaced the temperature control sensor and the reader is telling me the fault is now clear, but this morning on a short test run, there was a complete lack of power, almost as though it was running on 3 cylinders. (Plugs and connections have been checked).
Anyone with any clues as to where I might start on this?
Thanks in advance.

Of course it could be any number of issues right up to potential ECU problems but usually something much simpler. When you find the problem you will probably kick yourself.

When you checked the plugs, were they all the same. I.e you didn't have one oily plug suggesting it wasn't firing properly?

If you know the plugs are OK, I would disconnect the injectors and clean the connectors as the next step.

If you're feeling a bit more "random" have you checked all the sensors are tight and clean?

And for the cost, why not change the plug leads.

Cleaning or replacing the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor can sometimes cure issues such as this.

You'll find it, sometimes by structured diagnostics but sometimes by accident.

An experienced Ford garage might be able to help. Probably not a Main dealer but a little local garage that has dealt with Mondeos and Escorts in the past.

BTW, If you haven't already, get a copy of the Ford Escort Haynes Manual number 1737

Good Luck

If it has a carbon cannister for the fuel tank venting the solenoid valve normally only opens when the car is hot. If it sticks open when cold it will make it run richer

Actually with Ford EECIV engine management, the carbon canister vents on cold start and under acceleration...

Simon,

According to my Haynes Manual, "The canister purge solenoid valve is not opened by the ECU until the engine is fully warmed up and running under part load"

Not sure what EEC engine management version it is though. Ford EEC1V ??

When I did the Ford Engine management technician course way back in the annals of history-This was the course all the dealer techs were sent on
It was just as the Zetec had launched in the Escort with EECIV . We were taught then that the canister vented at cold start as extra enrichment and under full throttle conditions

Simon, my experience was of the Rover T16. I can't comment on Fords but on my +4 it was a problem.

As this new issue has only arisen since the temperature control sensor was changed, I would revisit that area. Were any connections close by, inadvertently disturbed for instance?

Sounds like the coil pack gone duff. Easy job to replace

I had a similar problem on my 4/4 with a 1.8 black top zetec. I changed the coil pack, leads and plugs. An experienced friend (garage owner) warned against changing just one item at a time. I purchased ford plug leads having been warned against using poor quality leads. I used a Bosch coil pack and NGK plugs. The problem was resolved. Don't know which was the faulty item but I suspect it was the coil pack.