Originally posted by WeirdArchives:
Yes, it's me again. The one with the 96 Ford Contour. This time, it's a real puzzler. My car is having trouble starting once the key is turned to start. It revs for a few seconds, then kicks over to full power. There's a power drain somewhere that I can't find, which is strange considering the battery's less than two years old. According to my relatives, I may have a fuel filter problem and dirty spark plugs which would explain the power loss. All I have to do is tap on the gas pedal and the engine turns over almost immediately. (Course, I think it's the starter, but I know auto mechanics the way a rock knows Shakespeare.) Does anyone have a diagram on how to replace a dirty fuel filter and spark plugs?

Any help will be appreciated. Thanks, guys.



I don't follow your description of the problem. If the engine starts then stalls, it won't be a battery problem.

If the engine cranks but does not start, it would only be a battery problem if it cranked very slowly.

If it cranks normally but does not start until you hold the throttle slightly open, you may have an IAC (idle air control) valve that is sticking shut. Clean it and try again. Sometimes it doesn't respond to cleaning and must be replaced.

If it starts but idles very slow for a moment and then move up the the normal cold high idle, again it is probably a sticking IAC.

If it is something else, please try again with your explanation.

This may help.

Cranking = engine spins with starter motor.

Turns Over = cranks

Starts = engine starts and runs

Stalls = engine is running and shuts off by itself

Revs = engine speeds up

Full power = full throttle acceleration

I guess what I'm trying to understand is your comment "engine revs for a few seconds then kicks over to full power".

Jim Johnson 98 SVT 03 Escape Limited