Auto Parts: Ford Escort problems, 1988 ford escort, ford escort

Question
I have a 1988 Ford Escort, that wont turn over.  I was told that a short occurred, causing some sort of surge frying my coil, which resulted in timing belt damages, which also cause water pump failure.  I was told I needed to take out spark plugs to clean them, replace coil and water pump, and refill coolant.  Does this sound legit?

Answer
Ron,

To be honest with you, not much of your information sounds legit.

If the coil is bad; fine, change it out and see where you're at from there.  The coil has nothing to do with the timing belt.

I believe your vehicle's timing belt does drive the water pump.  The timing belt isn't going to cause your water pump to fail itself.  However, if your timing belt snaps, then it won't be able to spin the water pump.  If your water pump isn't spinning, your engine isn't going to stay cool.  Serious overheat problems can occur.