Sounds to me like the tranny is gone...Your reverse gears are the last to go. You can try some of the Transmission Medic Fluids they have out....but it wont repair what is already gone it just might help you get it to the shop or the junk yard!
Could it be the clutch? Or cable?
Fully inspect your tires. A piece of one (or more of) your tires may be tearing off.
you must have run over a budgie
I will help but I need to know exactly whats happening, the noises it makes/etc...
it could possible be the U-Joint which is a cheap and easy fix. it's connected to your drive shaft.
Headers can be obtained and put on a ZX2, but I know of no one who makes a header for the standard Escort.
loose wheel hub screws.. the brake housing is rubbing against the inside of your wheel because it is loose
Becuase it does not have a reverse gear; reverse gear in a gearbox requires more cogs and drives so it makes the gear box alot more heavier than it needs to be. A bike is meant to be moveable by 'hands & feet'. In the early days (and in some military applications) some combinations (motorcycle & side car) did have a reverse gear; the old German BMW combo also had a drive shaft to the third wheel under the side car.
You should check the dual pump fluid in the diff. It is a common problem on the CRV. Drive in a constant circle and you will hear a similar noise.
Reverse
The original question asked about a "Chevy Escort." Ford makes the Escort. A car like that should have a map underneath the hood showing how to route the belt. If not, then you need to go to a car parts store and get a repair manual. They cost about $16.59. Or go to a public library. This obviousness has been brought to you in part by Steven Wheelard productions incorporated. All rights reserved.
Tie rod, ball joint or Strut.