98 ford escort makes loud rapping sounds when fist started in cold weather 32degrees or colder ,then it only doe's it for 30 to 45 sec. and then goes away for the rest of the day.

 

Sounds like the top end is dry at start up. How long has it been since the oil was changed?

 

Quality oil filters contain an anti-drainback valve. This keeps oil in the passages so you don't have a dry start-up. Also, are you using the oil recommended in your owners manual? The recommendations are different for different temps .