I have a 98 ford zx2 sport. The motor turns but that is all. The timing is correct and the plugs are pre- gaped with correct firing order with new factory distributor with spark. Why wont it turn over

http://autorepair.about.com/library/firing_orders/bl-fo-4581.htm -- check this out. Are you positive you have the plug wires in the correct order.

Yes the distributor is numbered as well as the wires. And i have the manual to help. It just wont turn over

So you turn the key and nothing happens. If so check battery voltage and connections. Or you turn the key and it turns over good just won't start?

No the motor turns under the power of the starter. It wont fire up. It just cranks and cranks but no fire. There is very light light blue exhaust but reeks of raw fuel. There is good spark and the fireing order is right but no combustion. It confuses the crap out of me.

Additional info. The vc gasket was blown. I fixed that. And about 4 months ago a radiator hose blew and a day later the serpentine belt broke. I fixed all that got it home and once it was off it hasnt ran. That was four months ago and ive been slowly trouble shooting but now im running out of ideas

Have you checked your timing belt?

Timing is good and everything lines up. My friend said my fuel filter may be plugged because when j push the nozzle on the rail with the key on it squirts and stops while it should have a constant stream

Could be filter or fuel pump.

Im going to try the pump and filter today. Ill keep posting. Thanks for all the info you have given since

I am considering buying a 1998 Ford Escort ZX2 It had been sitting under a tarp for 6 years. all of the belts and hoses have been changed including the timing belt, the fluids are all fresh plus new tires It has 144000 kms Asking price is $1700.00 Any advise???