Need some advice

[AudieM]

Hi everyone i just found this wonderful site and decided to join.
I did not realize there were so many Explorer lovers out there such as myself.

I do have 1 question i have a 1998 Explorer XLT. I heard some clicking noise
coming from the engine so not wanting to take any chances i took it to the ford dealership i purchased it from in 1998.

They called me back today and told me the timing chain guides were broken
and that it is quite a job to replace them.

the price he quoted with parts and labor is around 2,000 US dollars.

I know that dealerships charge a bit more to do work and i would rather trust ford with my truck then some rinkydink garage that may do more damage fixing it but is this price they gave me right.

any thoughts on this will be appreciated.

Thankyou :exp:

 

[James909]

Timing chain rattle is a very common problem on the SOHC engines. There was even a TSB released regarding the timing chain tensioner. Unfortunately nothing seems out of line with your problem. And the price they quoted you seems to be about average.

 

[jerzyguy29]

how much is a reman engine? just a thought. can you fix it yourself?
Cloyes / Timing Set
Warranty - 3 MO 9-0398S $448.99


Note:
Original equipment
Set contains 2 cassettes, 2 chains, 4 tensioners, 2 washers, 2 guides.
http://www.autozone.com/selectedZip...initialNtt,/initialNo,/shopping/selectZip.htm
500 dollars is alot cheaper than 2k

here is a link to the tsb http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=163298&highlight=98+explorer+timing+chain

 

[jerzyguy29]

hey bud heres some more info i found
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19801&highlight=timing+chain+replacement

 

[AudieM]

Thankyou

Thanks for the information and thoughts they have been most helpful. :exp:

Jerzyguy thanks for the advice on doing it myself while i have a pretty good knowledge of engines
doing that kind of job is beyond my ability.

I may buy the kit and ask one of my friends that has a better knowledge of engines to help me, it will definitly cost me less.

I will get it fixed somehow because i love my Explorer!!

Thanks again.