I suggest you have the fluid completely drained and a new filter installed. Do not have the system flushed. You will only stir up trouble. Use Mercon or Mercon V automatic Transmission Fluid. Ford says that all applications that previously required Mercon may now be serviced with Mercon V.
Mercon automatic transmission fluid.
Motorcraft MERCON automatic transmission fluid in the automatic and manual transaxles according to the 1999 Ford Escort owners manual
You can use any SAE certified transmission fluid in your 1998 Ford escort manual transmission. Make sure the transmission fluid is for your manual transmission and not an automatic transmission.
is it an automatic, or manual shift?
8 quarts.
Mercon automatic transmission fluid.
According to the 1997 Ford Escort Owner Guide both the automatic and manual transaxles ( transmissions ) take Motorcraft MERCON multi - purpose automatic transmission fluid
To drain and refill it takes 2.5 quarts of Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Motorcraft MERCON automatic transmission fluid ( according to the Owner Guide )
Both the manual and automatic transmissions take Mercon ATF.
Replace the gasket on the transmission pan and insect the seals on the transmission where your driveshafts come out
I have 97 Escort LX with 2.0 engine and auto transmission; Theowners manual calls for MERCUR type ATF