We bought a used ford escort wagon 1996, relatively low miles (77000). Car overheats after about 10 min. driving, and it starts running really rough and sputtering. Saw a very small leak (once) of radiator fluid. A mechanic friend checked it out.. . said it needed new head gasket and new head gasket bolts, also, got a new timing chain and new plug wires. The head looked fine. Don't see any radiator leaks. Still does it! What do you think the problem could be? On internet, here are ideas: Water pump? Thermostat? Clogged radiator? Coolant temp. sensor? Slight crack in coolant hose or air intake hose? What should we check first? Help!

You can't "see" a failed headgasket. But you can observe the sysmptoms. Look for the drivability symptoms you just mentioned. Look for unexplained loss of coolant: the recovery jugs is always empty but there are not obvious leaks.

You should also have the cooling fans checked: a faulty fan relay can cause overheating, too.

I've also seen a water pump worn, due to poorly maintained coolant quality, that the impeller was completely corroded away... the shaft was just pinning, not pumping anything.

I would recommend you go to a qulified ASE certified shop and have it properly diagnosed. Ask about diag fees upfront, and ask for a written guarantee.

See if this helps:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-3.html#post235973

Likely need to replace the radiator, due to poor maintenance.