Ford Repair: escort timing belt, timing belts, manual maintenance

Question
I have a 1998 escort with 166,000 miles on it. In the owner's manual maintenance schedule it never mentions replacing the timing belt. I wondered why this is and should it be done. Thanks.

Answer
Mike-

  The reason it's usually not listed is because no one can seem to agree when to change it.  It's one of those things that could go at 50K miles or last forever.  Tricky things, those timing belts.  However, as a general rule, I recommend people at least get them checked out for wear and condition at 150K or so.  Is it absolutely necessary?  No.  But it's a lot less expensive than dealing with the engine damage that would occur if the belt broke.  Hope this helps.

Steve