Four problems related to fuel pump have been reported for the 1997 Ford Escort. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The contact owns a 1997 Ford Escort. While he driving and when the vehicle was idling there were fuel fumes inside the vehicle. When driving the vehicle it took approximately 5 minutes for the fumes to enter the vehicle. While idling the fuel fumes were worse upon entering the vehicle. The fumes become so bad at times that the contact had to pull over and let the vehicle air out. The service dealer stated that it was the perch valve inside the gas tank that released the fumes. The fuel pump will have to be replaced to remedy the problem. The contact has not called the manufacturer.
The vehicle stalled without warning, the dealer replaced the fuel pump.
Harmonic balancer failed without warning while vehicle was parked and engine idling. Loud noise such as metal on metal eminated from engine compartment. Vehicle towed to Ford dealer. Advised by dealer that part poorly designed and new design in stock for replacement. Thermostat remained open not allowing engine to reach operating temperature. When replaced, the original thermostat came out of housing in three separate pieces. Fuel pump made whining noise from rear of vehicle. Replaced at no charge.
Head gasket failure, resulting in cracked pistons and damaged crank. Failed fuel pump/thermostat.