My 1996 Ford Escort with a 16V 1.6 Zetec engine stalls when cold. I have just basically overhauled the engine.
It has new valves, hydraulic tappets (serviced), spark plugs, air, oil & fuel filters.
This problem still persists.
Basically, the problem is as follows:
I start my car after not having used it for a few hours (its cold? -maybe, sometimes this happens on a hot day) and it starts fine. But as soon as you rev a bit and take your foot off the gas, the revs drop to 0 and it stalls. Apparently this is quite a common problem, but I have not recieved any useful answers from anyone.
Please help.
Thanks alot & GOD bless
-Mark

Mark Whitfeld, September 2005

change your oil to 5w - 30w you will find this will do the trick

kevin payton, May 2007

It sounds like the dreaded idle control valve again!! it can be found at the front of the inlet manifold .Has a small electrical connector to be unclipped and two small holding bolts to remove.Once this is removed try cleaning with parrafin or brake cleaning fluid and then replace.If this doesnt work perhaps a new valve if not then pass.Also as a footnote it is worth remembering that should you require a new valve there are two mount types to choose from either oval or square.hope it helps.

David, February 2007

Hi, i know it's been a while but did you get a definitive answer to this? i've got the same problem with my escort.
thanks,
timmish1@hotmail.com

Tim Hayman, February 2007