THINGS TO AVOID
Rust will kill any Mk3/4 Escort – even the best RSTs aren’t safe – and you’ll need to dig deep for repairs.
It’s essential to search everywhere for rot. Start with the obvious stuff: sunroof mechanisms are often rusty, as is the roof behind - there’s no fix other than a new skin. Pricey! Front wings, doors, tailgates and fuel filler surrounds rotted from new, and the bonnet could be scabby too.
Don’t be afraid to dig deeper, to the extent of dismantling as much trim as the seller will allow. Start underneath, scouring the floorpan, chassis, boot floor, rear valance, front crossmember, plus outer and inner sills – take off the plastic to investigate. Likewise, remove the back seat, then the inner rear quarter panels to examine the rear wheelarches – Ford’s foam packing traps water, which causes corrosion. The same foam surrounds the wiring loom, leading to problems.
Slide out the glovebox and look around at the wiring, fuel pump relay and how well (not if!) the battery tray has been welded. How much of the inner wings have been replaced? See what state the A-pillars are in, too.
The CVH engine wasn’t Ford’s finest design, but many plod along for years puffing plumes of smoke from the exhaust. If the car’s misfiring, underpowered, struggling to start or not making boost, don’t simply assume there’ll be an easy fix; it’s not unusual to spend serious cash resolving issues with sensors, relays, fuel meters and wiring faults.
Mechanically, everything is fixable – but don’t spend top money on a tired Escort. A rattly top end is normal, and a growling cam is cheap to replace. Knocking from the bottom end is more serious, as is blue smoke from the exhaust; suspect failed pistons and/or rings or a blown turbo, although the odd puff could merely be burnt valve stem seals. As always, beware of white smoke, high temperatures and oil/water mixing – sure signs of head gasket failure.
Finally, if you’re looking for a showpiece, beware of cars with tatty cabins. A mint RS Turbo interior is a rare and pricey thing. Driver’s seat bolsters are usually worn, too.