Escort erratic running

[derek.d]

Hi
I have a 1997 Escort GTI 1.8 when the car is stationary the engine keeps increasing in rpm and then dropping to almost stall speed, when driving the car at any constant speed the car feels as if the accelerater is being lifted then pushed down (very jerky)
Any help would be appreciated, Derek

 

[2scoops0406]

Could be the engine management system. If so, then unfortunately expensive to repair / replace. You'll have to take it to a ford dealer to get the EMS diagnosed though

 

[shaggy]

How long's it been doing it? On some cars if you disconnect the battery the engine runs rough until the ecu has set itself again. It doesn't take long though.

 

[breezer]

if you do dissconect the battery, make sure you have the radio's code first

 

[1chunky]

first thing is to remove and clean the idle control valve which lives down the back of the engine underneath the inlet manifold.
also remove the rubber trunking to the throttle body and make sure the butterfly inside moves freely when the throttle is operated, if not clean with some carb cleaner