This is actually much easier than most repair shops will tell you. We had the timing belt replaced on my son's fiance's '91 Escort at a cost of $750.00. When the belt on my '91 Escort let go, I replaced it in a little over 2 hours for $11.92, including tax!
My best advice to you is to invest about $12.00 (at my local AutoZone) for a small Haynes Repair Manual. This small manual will give you all of the instructions and photos needed to do the job. My water pump, idler pulley, and tensioning spring were all in good shape. Make sure you check these parts after you get the front end apart. Unless you have over 150,000 miles on your Escort, they're probably just fine.
I did find that it was easier to support the engine with blocking from underneath and pull the engine mount to get out the plastic timing belt cover. Other than that, the manual takes you through it step-by-step. It only requires basic tools (other than a puller for the crankshaft) and is quite a simple procedure.
If you don't have a gear puller, either buy a cheap one at Harbor Freight (that's what I used) or borrow one from your local parts house. AutoZone and Checker Auto loan their tools for free with only a deposit until you return them.
I would say "Good Luck", but you won't need it. It's really easier than it seems.
about $ 400
80,000 miles
timing belt
how do i set the timing on a 1995 ford escort LX??
belt - Gates ( they manufacture timing belts etc. ) show to inspect belt at 120,000 miles and replace if necessary
97 ford escort 2000 timing belt replacement
For a 2003 Ford Escort ZX2 : The 2.0 litre DOHC four cylinder engine has a ( timing BELT ) According to the scheduled maintenance guide ( replace at 120,000 miles )
No , it's a timing BELT
When I had mine done it was $297 parts and labor.
This car will use a timing belt.
Im replacing the timing belt on a 1995 Ford Escort 1.9L. How do I Set the timing on it?
The water pump is inside the timing cover and is run by the timing belt. If you are going to replace it, change out the belt at the same time.