1993 Ford Escort LX Hatchback. 1.9. 87000 miles.>

Engine wanted to stall on startup a couple times in the am. Then ran> fine. Later in day the engine starts lugging(doing 45-50 mph up a steep> hill) and the check engine light comes on. I back off accelerator and> the engine perks up and the light goes off(it was on maybe 5-7> seconds). Temp guage went up a tad from where it normally is....then> that's fine also.>

I get home and pop the hood and have white smoke(not alot...had to open> hood to see it) and a burning smell coming from the front area of the> engine.>

Taking it in to be looked in a couple days but was just wondering if> anyone had any clues before then.>

Thanks,> John