96-97 explorer timing chains

[4D X]

Long story short
took it into shop they say its the timing chain not much more. hoping to maybe do this work myself I took to the net to see whats involved. All I have to say is
My first question is Is this worth doing on a 160k + motor? I am very cash strapped and new / rehab motors are not on the table for me. The vehicle is in fair shape over all.
2nd question would be could you send me some links if it is something you think I should do from within the site maybe that best help me out? I started this thread because I most likely will need some hand holding through this process. Sounds like a lot of DON'T mess up or you just wasted even more time / money.
I can turn a wrench but never pulled an engine before.
Thanks

 

[Mesozoic]

160K on a 5.0L V8 timing chain isn't much mileage at all, at least if it's been reasonably well maintained. Is this on a V6?

 

[Tech By Trade]

Have a look at the wreckers for a low mile post 2002 4.0sohc. Ranger, Mustang, Explorer, Sport Trac, Land Rover, and others I'm sure I missed will all work and have any upgrades that were added over the years.

 

[4D X]

Sorry. Yeah its a 4.0L SOHC. I guess I should just put it in my sig

 

[C420sailor]

IMO, not worth replacing on an engine with that much mileage. I'd either swap in a newer motor or just call it quits and drive it until it blows up.

I swapped an '11 Ranger engine with 36k on the clock in. It's a fair amount of work, but it was my first solo engine swap. To be honest, rusted fasteners were the hardest part. Trucklet runs like brand new now.

The cost...isn't worth it to most people. A new-ish low mileage engine is going to run you close to a grand. You swap the vast majority of parts (valve covers, exhaust manifolds, etc) over from your old engine...but regasketing as you go is smart. You're also going to need tools like an engine hoist...access to a torch and an impact helps a lot...although if your truck lived in the south most of its life, you likely won't really need those items.

Don't replace it with an engine older than '03. Earlier motors are plagued with tensioner/cassette issues like yours is.

 

[4D X]

I found A motor local for $850 w/103k on it. Don't know much about it other than it will fix my vehicle. The other option was a one with 170k for $500 which is what Ive been seeing around the net/Ebay etc.
This truck has been in Minnesota for at least 2 years now. I know rust is going to be a major issue. I know someone with a hoist and stand. They want the core for $103 dollars off, but I'm gonna strip what I reasonably can for parts off it. I rent so storage is an issue. Wish I could keep the whole thing.
I plan on getting as many seals replaced on the new one as I can in a short time while its out of the truck. I would imagine the front and rear engine seals should be replaced. yes?

 

[Mesozoic]

Wow, that's a lot of money for a 103K engine. I would probably look into simply overhauling the engine rather than swapping in an old overpriced potential bag of worms.

 

[4D X]

It seems to be the going market price on this motor, but anyway time is not on my side and I have to get this going. Its not ideal I hear ya. I appreciate everyone's input. I just need to make best of bad situation

 

[4D X]

Having trouble disconnecting the fuel lines. I have the tool for them but they don't seem to want to separate. Is there a trick to it?