Ford Repair: High rev on idle then car wont start, throttle position sensor, left turn signal

Question
Hi Dave,
We have a 1993 Ford Tempo that has recently had a new drive belt, battery and alternator installed.Today after travelling my daughter said the car was reving high(up to 2000 rpm) whilst idling and would not kick off. SHe shut it off and then when she tried to start it again, it would not turn over (only a clicking noise but would not start).
She said prior to this today the left turn signal was acting odd (would not function/blink properly) but then, it was okay the next time.
We are wondering it there might be a glitch somewhere in the electrical system(the top row of lights on the dash heating/air indicators is on again off again..presently off)?
Is it salvageable or shold I blow it up now? My daughter is stuck in another city but hopes to find out the problem and get home in time for work on Monday! ( me too!) Can you give us a clue as to what to do?
Thanks.
Bonnie

Answer
I don't think that an electrical glitch is causing all of these problems.  If the engine is not cranking and only making a clicking noise, the battery is probably weak.  I would check the new battery and alternator; also check all of the battery cable connections, make sure that they are clean and tight.  The engine idling at 2000 RPM's could be caused by the throttle plate not closing in the throttle body.  I could be being held open slightly by a bad throttle position sensor, or it could just be dirty.  The blinker not blinking intermittently is usually caused by a bulb that is about to fail.

I hope this helps,
Dave