It seems to depend on the spark plug. I replaced the Motorcraft plugs with Bosch Platinum+2 plugs. Look here for what Bosch says about torques (search for the word "torque"): http://www.boschautoparts.com/Resources/FAQS/SparkPlugs.htm The box of the Platinum+2 plugs said to torque them to 15 ft.-lbs., which is what I did. Good luck!
The 2004 Ford Escape's engine produces 135 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2011 Ford Escape's engine produces 171 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2008 Ford Escape's engine produces 152 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm.
The 2012 Ford Escape's engine produces 171 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2007 Ford Escape's engine produces 152 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm.
The 2006 Ford Escape's engine produces 152 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm.
The 2013 Ford Escape's engine produces 170 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2002 Ford Escape's engine produces 135 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2001 Ford Escape's engine produces 135 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2005 Ford Escape's engine produces 152 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm.
The 2014 Ford Escape's engine produces 170 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.
The 2009 Ford Escape's engine produces 171 ft-lbs. @ 4500 rpm.