i have a ford escort 1.6 16v si i started it yesterday drove less than 100 yards and it cut out and not been able to start it since.

hi friend
could be a host of things preventing it from starting.firstly remove a spark plug & reconnect plug lead to it, then with a well insulated pair of pliers/grips hold plug body tight to a good earthing point on engine & get friend to crank engine,while you check for spark. if no spark examine leads leading into distributor/ign amp for loose connections. if ok, remove dist cap & get friend to crank engine while you make sure that rotor arm is turning as it should. if not turning then a strong poss that cam belt is broke. if it is turning, then remove h.t. lead from dist cap & hold about 1 inch from good earth & crank eng, if spark ok good chance rotor arm is faulty, if no spark, then coil /ign amp will be suspect as faulty, you can illiminate by substitution or rely on good auto elec friend with his test gear. i'm afraid that's all i can help you with mate, as i've no exp with e.f.i. or deeper auto electrics. good luck mate & i hope my tips help you , regards dj dave