Ford Explorer 2003 xlt timing chain issues | Ford Explorer Forums

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Ford Explorer 2003 xlt timing chain issues

Xloco30

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Hello Guys, I had my 2003 Ford Explorer taking to a mechanic in Toms River NJ. One of the timing chains broke from my Explorer which is a 4.0 V6. The vehicle was towed to my house and all three timing chains replaced. The car started but did not have any power. The vehicle never smoked pistons and valves were still good. I took it to a mechanic who advised me he would conduct a compression test and advise me what the issue was. He had my vehicle for 2 months now and tell me the timing chains were off by 30 degrees. He then said he did a compression test after and that cylinder 1 and 6 were burnt and that he replaced 2 of the valves. He then states I needed a Catalyst Converter and that he suggest I junk the truck. Now he wants to charge me $1200 dollars for the work he did. Question. If the timing chain was off by 30 degrees will it start. And why take the engine out before doing a compression test? What to do any suggestions will be helpful.
 






It may start, but it sure wouldn't run well! I'm surprised the valves didn't contact the pistons being so far out of sync.

No you should not have to remove the engine to perform a compression test. It's not easy getting to the rear plugs, but it's definitely possible!

Sorry to hear about your situation. From the sound of it the mechanic doesn't sound to trustworthy.
 






30 degrees off

The right camshaft will rotate to about 30 degrees off when the sprocket retaining bolt is loosened due to pressure from the compressed valve springs against the lobes. Did you use the OTC 6488 timing tool set to time the camshaft when replacing the timing chains? Did you perform a compression test before starting the engine after replacing the camshaft timing components? If so, all of the right bank cylinders would have lower compression if the timing was off 30 degrees.

I think some members have been lucky not to have valve damage when the timing on the right bank was 30 degrees off. It will run (poorly) when off by that amount.
 






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