Escort keeps cutting out

[Topsie]

HI I have an L reg Escort 1.4i LX .... The other night whilst driving on the motorway I noticed that the dashboard lights and clock were very dim .... we had no problems starting the  car that night but the next morning on the way to work the car cut out and wouldnt start.  I have one of thos chargers in the car with the jump leads and it would start and then just cut out again.  Though it may be a problem with the power so I tried it with just the sidelights on and it let me drive it to get it off the road.  However, when the full headlights were turned on it would cut out again, and the dashboard lights and clock are still very dim.  Also the electric windows are VERY slow.  Does anyone have any ideas I can check before I take to garage?  ... Thanks for any help anyone can give me.

[scrambler]

Battery, or charging system, try a new battery first. Battery retailers will do free test for you

[ianess]

Dead or extremely sick alternator?  Easily checked at any garage but the solution may be expensive.  You`re describing exactly what my Nissan Primera had.......good luck.

[sddsddean]

Yep, I'd go for an alternator problem. Ask them to check the brushes before they hit you for a new one. The brushes are relative cheap and could be changed in an hour or so.

[Ewood27]

Before you spend money, check the cable from the battery to a point on the bodywork - the earth connection.  If that connection's badly corroded it messes up all the electrics.  If that's the problem, clean both the connector on the end of the cable and the bit it bolts to, apply Vaseline and reconnect.  With luck you will be back in business.

[spudqueen]

I've got an N reg Ford Escort and recently had to have a new fuse box as I was having problems with the lights, heated rear windscreen etc.....................................

[Skellen]

alternator is goosed