what is the weird burning smell under the hood?

Dear theal-- There are a lot of things that could be the source of that burning smell from you 2001 Ford Focus engine. Belts might be the obvious choice, but it could also be wires, or the battery cable, or an alternator bearing, etc. If you aren't mechanically adept, have a professional look at it before a small problem becomes a major one. Good luck from Bovan.

sounds like you have a short in your wireing,this is a problem that a good mechanic should fix.