2000StreetRod
Moderator Emeritus
- Joined
- May 26, 2009
- Messages
- 10,597
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- City, State
- Greenville, SC
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 00 Sport FI, 03 Ltd V8
This step-by-step procedure for removing a second generation Explorer SOHC V6 engine is to date my most ambitious effort to generate another one of My Helpful Threads . It is based on my experience of removing my 2WD 2000 Sport engine that utilized instructions in the Haynes Repair Manual and the following much appreciated procedures posted on the internet:
Ford Explorer SOHC Timing Chain Replace
How to: Remove 4.0 Engine Explorer 1997-2001
I found that the photos in the above procedures were extremely helpful and I intend to add photos and expand the text of this procedure as time permits.
Due to the age and mileage of the second generation Explorers many are now experiencing rear timing chain guide failure (like mine) which to correct requires either removing the engine or the transmission. Also, engines may need rebuilding due to bearing and ring wear. I anticipate rebuilding my engine in the next two years and intend to validate this procedure in the process.
I encourage members to provide constructive comments to improve the quality of this procedure. There is a good chance that I have omitted something. I also encourage members to identify differences for other years and models. I will incorporate comments as appropriate.
Since some removals will be performed outside, the overall process is to first remove or disconnect the under hood components to reduce engine exposure to the elements. Second, tasks requiring access thru the wheel wells is performed. Third, work is performed under the vehicle. Fourth, the crane is attached to the engine to support its weight. Fifth, the engine is disconnected from the transmission. And finally, the engine is lifted out of the vehicle by the crane and transferred to an engine stand. The procedure assumes that the engine is being removed in an enclosed structure and the hood is removed early to improve access to the engine. If engine removal is to be performed outdoors, hood removal may be delayed until the crane is needed.
I used a 1 ton rated crane shown in the photo below to lift my engine.
The boom has four preset extension positions. I used the longest one for ¼ ton or 500 lbs which was adequate for the engine weight but too short to reach the engine center of gravity lift point. I had to remove the front bumper and feed the boom chain thru the end of the boom to achieve adequate reach. These two tasks can be avoided if you have access to a heavier duty crane with a longer boom.
I used zip lock freezer bags to segregate nuts and bolts by location or function. Purchase the ones that have a designated surface for annotating the contents and make notes. Also, use masking or similar tape with annotations to identify ignition wires and mating electrical, vacuum, coolant and fuel connectors.
Note: Forum rules allow only four photo attachments per post. Since I plan to incorporate many photos numerous posts were required.
Ford Explorer SOHC Timing Chain Replace
How to: Remove 4.0 Engine Explorer 1997-2001
I found that the photos in the above procedures were extremely helpful and I intend to add photos and expand the text of this procedure as time permits.
Due to the age and mileage of the second generation Explorers many are now experiencing rear timing chain guide failure (like mine) which to correct requires either removing the engine or the transmission. Also, engines may need rebuilding due to bearing and ring wear. I anticipate rebuilding my engine in the next two years and intend to validate this procedure in the process.
I encourage members to provide constructive comments to improve the quality of this procedure. There is a good chance that I have omitted something. I also encourage members to identify differences for other years and models. I will incorporate comments as appropriate.
Since some removals will be performed outside, the overall process is to first remove or disconnect the under hood components to reduce engine exposure to the elements. Second, tasks requiring access thru the wheel wells is performed. Third, work is performed under the vehicle. Fourth, the crane is attached to the engine to support its weight. Fifth, the engine is disconnected from the transmission. And finally, the engine is lifted out of the vehicle by the crane and transferred to an engine stand. The procedure assumes that the engine is being removed in an enclosed structure and the hood is removed early to improve access to the engine. If engine removal is to be performed outdoors, hood removal may be delayed until the crane is needed.
I used a 1 ton rated crane shown in the photo below to lift my engine.
The boom has four preset extension positions. I used the longest one for ¼ ton or 500 lbs which was adequate for the engine weight but too short to reach the engine center of gravity lift point. I had to remove the front bumper and feed the boom chain thru the end of the boom to achieve adequate reach. These two tasks can be avoided if you have access to a heavier duty crane with a longer boom.
I used zip lock freezer bags to segregate nuts and bolts by location or function. Purchase the ones that have a designated surface for annotating the contents and make notes. Also, use masking or similar tape with annotations to identify ignition wires and mating electrical, vacuum, coolant and fuel connectors.
Note: Forum rules allow only four photo attachments per post. Since I plan to incorporate many photos numerous posts were required.