Why won't my 1997 Ford Escort ZX2 start?

[GomerP]

Yes the timing belt can jump and engine still show compression.. The uneven readings may be a sign that something is a miss. Have you tried pushing the gas down 1/4 " while cranking? Did it die going down the road or overnight/no start? I dunno...poss that the new plugs have fouled out from over fueling or carb cleaner. Sounds like it may be time to get it looked at cause if you have spark compression and fuel she should run.... Maybe a sensor that is keeping it from running. Might have to see computer data stream to identify problem. Also where did you check spark...these coil packs do have problems, and electricity is lazy so maybe good spark not making it to plugs. From here though, I would check timing marks on belt and look at data...

[Henry]

I have strong spark and fuel at the fuel rail but it won't start. Compression is 155,165,190,170. Changed fuel pump, fuel filter, plugs and wires. Didn't have fuel at fuel rail when it broke down, so I thought ? Fuel filter was disgusting but could blow thru it. good stream at fuel rail now. Didn't start when spraying carb cleaner into throttle body. Can it jump time and have compression?