02-05 Timing Chain Replacement Guide or Video?

[Johnny Glenn]

Thanks for Looking in -- Trying to fix rattling chains and can't find any good step by step guides for the 02-05 4.0L engine. Have found several good posts on the 2nd Gen but thinking there are more differences than just the intake on the 3rd Gen? Hoping to try and inspect and replace tensioners or guides w/out removing engine. Crossing fingers it is not the rear chain as I know that requires removal. I have a Haynes manual but a good video or link w/ pics is normally much easier to follow! I would think this topic would have multiple "stickys" but didn't have luck finding anything? THX

 

[2000StreetRod]

cruzroy videos

This link may help: Timing chain replacement on a 2002 explorer 4.0 l

 

[Johnny Glenn]

Thx for the link. I've seen this on youtube and he has other vids as well on the timing chain repair which are very informative but as he clearly states he's learning as he goes! I've been doing some more research and it does look like the 3rd Gen model closely resembles the previous model once intake etc is removed. I'm going to try replacing the tensioners first and hopefully the guides haven't been chewed up to bad...and of course hoping the rear chain isn't the problem. StreetRod -- I see you do a great job in answering these posts -- Thanks! If possible -- see if you can get an experienced member to document their repair on a 02-05 model Explorer on how to diagnose and repair these chains with engine in and then of course finishing repair if the engine must be removed. There seems to be very little "experienced" information online and the forum concerning this very common problem. THX again!!

 

[2000StreetRod]

minor differences

There are only a few minor differences in any of the Ford SOHC V6 4.0L engine long blocks. This applies to the Explorer, Mountaineer, Ranger, Mustang and even the Land Rover Discovery III. The only things I can think of right now are the crankcase breather, the fuel injector head seals and the valve covers (which often are not considered part of a long block).

I doubt that replacing the hydraulic chain tensioners will eliminate cold start rattle but that is the first thing to try according to Ford service instructions. The new tensioner springs often are weaker than the original ones.

 

[Johnny Glenn]

Just a quick follow up for everyone w/ the "rattle". Changed both tensioners and noise was reduced 80%. I actually had two that I was working on and this repair cured both of them so much so -- no need to go any further! Thx StreetRod for your help and good luck everyone w/ this easy "potential" fix.