Ford Escort Mk1 and Mk2 Maintenance: What to Check
Written by Petro Olekhnovych, mobile mechanic in Aylesham, Kent
Good Ford Escort Mk1 and Mk2 maintenance means knowing which engine you have, changing the oil regularly with the right grade, and keeping on top of rust. Kent engines are tough but leak and wear their cam followers. Pinto engines need cambelt changes and clean oil to protect the camshaft.
Know which engine your Escort has
The rear-wheel-drive Escort ran from 1968 until July 1980, when the front-wheel-drive Mk3 took over. Hagerty notes the Mk2 was unveiled in January 1975.
Most everyday Mk1s use the Kent engine in 1098cc or 1298cc form. This is the overhead-valve, crossflow design many owners simply call the Crossflow. The Mexico used a 1.6-litre version.
Some models use the Pinto instead. The RS2000 had a 2-litre Pinto in both Mk1 and Mk2 form. Classics World notes the Mk2 RS Mexico used a 1593cc overhead-cam Pinto.
The rare Twin Cam and RS1600 engines are a different world. Classics World advises that Twin-Cam engines are complex and should be overhauled by an expert.
Check your logbook, engine number and handbook before ordering parts or oil. An older car may not still have the engine it left the factory with.
Kent engine: leaks and tapping
Hagerty describes the Kent engine as robust. Its common faults are minor, but worth catching early.
- Rocker cover leaks. Hagerty says these are common and usually fixed with a new gasket.
- Tapping from the top of the engine. Both Hagerty and Classics World link this to worn cam followers.
- Crank seal leaks. Classics World says these are common on Crossflow and Pinto engines.
- Rough running on base models. Classics World points to a worn Autolite carburettor.
Classics World also warns that oily scum in the coolant header tank may mean a failing head gasket. If you see it, stop using the car and get it checked. A failing head gasket can lead to overheating.
Classic car needs some care?
Servicing, recommissioning and mechanical restoration for older cars across Kent.
WhatsApp for a free quote Call 07563 350335
Labour £30 to £50 per hour depending on the job. Send your reg number and we will reply with a price before any work starts.
Pinto engine: cambelt and camshaft
The Pinto has a cambelt. Hagerty says it should be changed “every 25,000 miles or three years”. If you have no record of the last change, treat it as due.
Camshaft wear is the other Pinto issue. Hagerty links it to using the wrong oil grade. Classics World says a blocked oil feed tube along the cam rail is a common cause, often down to infrequent oil changes or the wrong grade.
What this means for you:
- Change the oil regularly with the grade your handbook or a marque club recommends.
- Listen for hammering or tapping from the top of the engine.
- Blue exhaust smoke can point to worn piston rings, bores or valve stem seals.
Our timing belt guide covers what a cambelt change involves.
Rust: where to look
Rust is the big one. Hagerty calls it “the biggest cost in sorting an Escort”, though it says every panel is available.
Between the two guides, check these areas:
- Front inner wings and suspension top mountings (turrets)
- Bulkhead and windscreen surrounds
- Sills, floorpans and door bottoms
- Boot floor, wheelarches and valences
Classics World adds that water leaks are common, so feel the floors and bulkhead for damp.
The turrets carry the front suspension, so if you find rust there, get it assessed by a body shop before driving the car hard. We do not do bodywork or welding.
Gearbox, rear axle and springs
All these Escorts use a live rear axle on leaf springs, with MacPherson struts at the front.
Gearbox. Both guides say grinding or rumbling suggests wear, and jumping out of gear on overrun means work is due. On automatics, Classics World says the fluid should be bright red and shifts should be smooth.
Rear axle. Hagerty notes hard-driven cars can have noisy differentials. Classics World says rear wheel bearings can get noisy as miles rise. They are pressed on, so replacement is a workshop job.
Springs and dampers. Classics World says the leaf springs can last for decades. If the rear feels soggy, the dampers may be worn.
Brakes: drums and discs
Base Mk1s had drum brakes. Classics World says many cars had drums all round, while better-equipped and sporting models got front discs.
Classics World suggests checking the discs or drums, wheel cylinders and brake lines, and making sure the handbrake holds on a slope. Hagerty describes upgrading base drums to discs as worthwhile for regular use.
If the pedal feels soft, the car pulls to one side, or the brakes grind, stop driving and get them checked. Our post on brake pad warning signs explains the common symptoms.
Fuel: E10 or E5?
GOV.UK says classic, cherished and older vehicles may not be compatible with E10 petrol. It advises owners of cars not listed on its checker to keep using E5 (97+ octane) petrol. Our guide to running a classic on E10 goes into more detail.
How we can help
We service and repair classic and vintage cars, including Mk1 and Mk2 Escorts. Read more about our classic car mechanic service across Kent.
- We come to you in Aylesham, Canterbury, Dover, Deal, Sandwich, Folkestone and the villages around them.
- Oil and filter changes, cambelts, brake pads and discs, tune-ups, recommissioning and fault finding.
- Bigger jobs go to classic engine rebuilds in a Kent workshop.
- Labour is £30-£50 per hour depending on the job. Parts are extra, and the price is agreed on WhatsApp first.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a Pinto cambelt be changed?
Hagerty says every 25,000 miles or three years. If there is no record, have it done.
Why is my Kent engine tapping?
Both buying guides link a tapping top end to worn cam followers. Get it checked before it gets worse.
Can I run my Escort on E10?
GOV.UK says older and classic cars may not be compatible. If yours is not on the checker, use E5 super grade.
Where do Escorts rust most?
Front inner wings, turrets, sills, floors, boot floor, arches and valences are the main areas named in the guides.
Need help? Send a WhatsApp to 07563 350335 with your car’s make and model and we’ll come to you.
Classic car needs some care?
Message us on WhatsApp with your reg and postcode for a price before any work starts.
WhatsApp for a free quote Call 07563 350335
Labour £30 to £50 per hour depending on the job. Send your reg number and we will reply with a price before any work starts.
