Newbie with a '99 Limited Project

[stickboy]

Hello all,

I am a new member from Montana and thought I would just say hello. I recently acquired a really nice '99 Limited with a 4.0 SOHC in trade for a handgun. The truck only has 150k, but the previous owner had the thermostat fail and subsequently blew the passenger side head gasket. So I figured I would take it in as a project. I notice the truck is also making a rattling noise from the lower front of the engine, so I suspect the timing chains are wearing down as well, so I will be pulling the entire engine and working through a few things to get her back in shape. While doing research on this truck and engine, I stumbled across these forums and it looks like there is a huge wealth of information, so I hope to take advantage. As things progress, I will be able to return the favor and make a lot of contributions of my own!

 

[BigRondo]

Welcome aboard!!

Be sure to check out the 2nd Generation Sub-Forums:

Stock 1995 - 2001 Explorers
Questions related to non-modified 1995-2001 Explorer, Mountaineer, Ranger and '02+ Sports and Sport Trac. Problem solving, maintenance, TSB, service bulletins, owner reviews, specifications.

Modified 1995-2001 Explorers
Questions related to modified 1995-2001 Explorer, Mountaineer, Ranger and 2002+ Sports (2dr). Aftermarket accessories and modifications. Bullbar, running boards, floor mats, cargo mat, DVD headrest, wheels, tires, stereo upgrade, headlights, mud flaps, torsion twist, lift kits, engine swap, transmission swap.

Good luck and Happy Exploring!

 

[field]

Do any of the head gasket repair chemicals provide a working seal?

 

[stickboy]

The PO told me he put a bunch in there, and it still leaked pretty bad. Fortunately it looks like it just leaked outside and not into the cylinders or oil. I did drive it around quite a bit before I started working on it, and it also sounds like the timing chains are making noise, so I figured I might as well kill 2 birds with one stone. Other than the engine, it's in really good shape, and I got it for almost nothing (traded a handgun for it). It's also not my daily driver, so I can take my time going through it. Will make for a fun project for the summer!

 

[skpyle]

Hello stickboy, and welcome!

I have a '99 Limited and love it dearly! Granted, mine is a 5.0 AWD, but that doesn't matter. You should have no problem overhauling the 4.0 SOHC in your '99. There is plenty of info on this forum to help you.

However, I would like to offer a tip: many forum members with roached 4.0 SOHC engines have swapped them for used low milage long block 4.0 SOHC engines from mid 2000's Mustangs. Same basic engine, though the timing chain cassettes have been upgraded. You will have to swap most of the outside parts, injectors, wiring, etc...

Just an idea to save time and possibly a little money.

Good Luck and enjoy your Limited!

Seth K. Pyle

 

[stickboy]

I am kind of looking forward to doing to rebuild. That way I will know what I have, and will give me something to work on when I get bored! That being said, are there aftermarket timing parts that have fixed some of the problems?

 

[skpyle]

I understand that mentality completely.
As for improved timing chain parts, to my understanding, its the plastic guide fingers on the cassettes that are the issue. To my knowledge, nobody has made anything better.
However, I am by no means an expert.
Look for posts by 2000StreetRod. He has done in depth research on the 4.0 SOHC timing chain issue.

Good Luck!

Seth K. Pyle

 

[1Aauto]

Welcome to the site.

Tony:wavey: