a stuck injector will cause too much fuel which will wash past the rings and get into the oil. The engine will certianly run poorly if that's what's going on.
The fuel pressure on a 1998 Ford Escort should be between 40 and 60 psi at idle and not drop below 35psi under acceleration.
This is because of rabbits communicating.
Try pressing the button on top of the steering column. It should be marked with a red triangle.
Change the plugs and wires. also check the throttle position sensor or have it tested
Change the spark plugs and wires first. That is often all they need to run right.
I have a 1992 Escort, and it starts doing that right around the time it needs its 30,000 mile check-up.
On my 1996 Escort the front of the rear seat cushion is held in place by one clip on each side below the front of the seat. The front of the clip is actually a button that releases the seat when it is pressed. Press the button and while pressing lift the seat out of the clip, one side at a time. escort@rslate.com
Low refrigerant causing compressor not to start?
If this is the European Escort This engine is classed as an interference engine. In the event of belt failiure the valves meet the pistons causing the valves to bend and possibly other engine damage.
The Ford Escort RS Turbo is derived from rally-car inspired designs. It can generate output of 1,000 horsepower with tuning. It is designed to qualify as a group A rally car, and thus has excellent handling and acceleration capabilities
Convoy
The engine may vibrate causing the front bumper pab=nel to rattle.