A mechanic’s stethoscope tool might help narrow down where the noise is coming from. Maybe even just a short length of old garden hose. Common engine related ticking noise sources
Tester
How sad. The Ford Escort was an excellent car, except for the pesky valve seat problem. It’s too bad there was never a warranty enhancement for this defect, and that professional mechanics did not recommend proactive replacement of the valve seats in these engines.
There are many suspicious customers out there who would think the mechanic was trying to scam them if he told them “Sir, I recommend a proactive replacement of the valve seats for your Ford Escort which is currently running perfectly” . . .
While I was trying to figure out my occasional/random rough running issues (which ended in a dropped valve seat), a friend of my brother who was a Ford dealer mechanic actually denied the existence of such an issue.
Agreed with having the junkyard come pick this car up.
It’'s never going to run reliably, due to both age and condition. You’re going to pour a lot of time, energy, and money into something that will not improve.
Personally, I’ve realized the value of my time and peace of mind. I’d rather spend the money and get a car I don’t have to worry about. I have other things to worry about besides my car. Having an unreliable, problematic car, and choosing to keep it only makes life harder.
But your mileage may vary.
This thread reminds me that these cars are another example of going extinct. I owned 2 LH cars, a Dodge Intrepid and a Chrysler LHS. I absolutely loved them. Comfortable, roomy, great ride. These cars were all over the place, and now they’re nowhere to be found.
It makes sense that anything with a 2.7 went to an early grave, but the 3.5 was a perfectly fine engine.
Here in southern AZ, these cars are still plentiful on the road, especially the 4-cylinder models. I still see them for sale on Craigslist all the time.
The 1st generation Mopar platform (1993-1997) used the 3.3 and 3.5 V6 engines…
The 2nd generation Mopar platform (1998-2004) used the 2.7 and 3.2 V6 engines…
No 4 cylinders were ever options…
You’re right. I thought the Stratus and Sebring, which were definitely offered with 2.4L and 2.7L engines, were the same family. And those models were very popular when new, and still a common sight today.
I haven’t seen an LH-car on the road in several years
Ticking? One of several valve clearance problems, head gasket, wrist pin.