Contour Keeps Stalling - Need Insight and Suggestions
 

Hello, new user here with a problem that I can't seem to pinpoint.

I own a 1998 Ford Contour. I just spent a grand to get a new fuel pump and two weeks later it started having more problems. Here's some of the problems it just started having:

- Ticking when braking until it eventually completely stalls out and the check engine light comes on.
- Heater vents blow nothing but cold air(winter here) and what smells like burning oil or rubber.
- Will start back up after it stalls but I have to pump the gas a bit. Once started the ticking continues until I brake again in which the car stalls yet again.
- When pressing the gas the car seems "sluggish".

Now after some little research on the web I saw some similar problems mention a Vacuum Hose or Belt. I was just curious as to everyone else on this forums take on the matter. Any suggestions or insight will be more than helpful and appreciated. Thanks guys!