Wiring Harness

1988 Ford Escort EXP AutomaticSECTION Wiring Harness
  1. Disconnect wiring harness connector from ignition module. Inspect connector for dirt, corrosion, or damage. Repair if necessary. Disconnect wire at "S" terminal of starter solenoid.
  2. Attach negative voltmeter lead to distributor base. Measure voltage at battery. With negative lead of voltmeter still connected to distributor base, check voltages at TFI ignition module wiring harness terminals. See WIRING HARNESS CHECK table. See Fig 1.
  3. If all readings are at least 90% of battery voltage, wiring harness is okay. Turn ignition off. Remove voltmeter. Connect "S" terminal to starter solenoid. Proceed to appropriate STATOR test.
  4. If any reading is less than 90% of battery voltage, inspect wiring harness and connectors. Also check for a worn or damaged ignition switch. Repair or replace as necessary. Turn ignition off. Remove voltmeter. Connect "S" terminal to starter solenoid.
WIRING HARNESS CHECK

Connector Terminal No. Wire (Circuit) Ignition Switch Test Position
2 Coil - Terminal "RUN"
3 Run "RUN" or "START"
4 Start "START"
Fig 1: Wiring Harness Test
G54470Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.