[lskp81]

Hi all,

97 Escort

Car stopped running. Mechanic said the heater core leaked onto ECU unit. I replaced both heater core and ECU unit but the car still does not start.

My thoughts:
The heater core definitely seems to have leaked. Car was working fine before my problems so the leak must have caused it. So I changed the heater core before tackling anything else.

I swapped the old ECU with a used ECU with the same exact part number and (presumably, so said the online dealer) from the same type of car (97 escort, auto, ac).

Car still won't start (but turns over). I'm now thinking it may be some of the wiring near the ECU that might be at fault but i'm not sure.

Is there anything I should also consider? I'm trying to save money by doing this on my own so I'd appreciate any help you folks can give me.

thanks!

 

[pextor]

do you have spark? do you hear the fuel pump?

 

[lskp81]

i just tested it and i don't get a spark. i don't know how to check the fuel pump.

so i'm guessing either the ECU is not working OR the wire connectors for the ECU are bad.

sound about right? any advice on how i should proceed?

thanks!

 

[pextor]

you should hear the fuel pump prime for 2 seconds when you turn the key to "on", before you crank it.

 

[98_Jim]

Do you have access to a scan tool or code reader?

I'd plug one in to the OBD service port and see if the tool can communicate with the PCM.. If it can, then that would indicate that the computer isn't completely dead... If you're lucky there might be even be a code or two that could help with the diagnosis.

 

[lskp81]

no, i don't hear the fuel pump.

i'll try borrowing a scan tool from auto shop later today and get back to you folks.

thanks!

 

[jeff518]

no spark and fuel? you checked the timing belt?

 

[skaterbro]

Doubt it's the timing belt. Check for voltage AT the fuel pump. You got it easy, just remove the rear seat cushion and access panel and there's your pump.

 

[lskp81]

fixed!

i took it to a trusted mechanic and apparently, the air bag computer module shorted. just disconnected the wires from that, replaced a fuse, and changed the heater core. car now works perfectly.

guess it wasn't ecm after all.

thanks for your help everyone!!

 

[EscortLX97]

That was what I was going to suggest. that happened to me except the car was still running while it was shorting and almost started a fire. Lucky me I did know what was the problem before losing the car to a fire.