Need help! New motor vs fixing my current one

[Lilone]

Hey everyone. I just got a 1997 XLT with the 4.0 SOHC. The motor has the notorious timing chain/tensioner problem and I'm sure it bent valves and needs some headwork.

My question is, what would be easier, and which would be cheaper?
Option 1:

Keeping the motor I have and fixing the top end, and replacing the timing chains and all needed items. The motor has 130k on it, and I would like to go this route if possible so I know the top end is fresh on the motor. I have heard this is quite a pain to do though, as you need special tools to get the timing right, since there are no timing marks anywhere.

The other option is buying a used motor and dropping it in.

Thanks for any input! If you know of any good how-to's or a walk through on how to replace the timing chains that would be great.

 

[Ray Lobato]

Hi and welcome to the site.
It all depends on how good a mechanic you are and how much time you want to spend on this. Getting another motor would be much easier and rebuilding the old one, but you would have a lot more knowledge rebuilding it yourself.
Cost wise, I don't think it would be any cheaper one way or the other.
Good Luck.
Try looking at this thread. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=161701&highlight=timing+chain+change
This should give you a good idea of how to change the timing chain. I know that it's not very desolate, working in the engine compartment, but don't let all the stuff intimidate you.
Do you know how to replace the valves, if any are bent?