Rear timing chain removal.

[TravisG]

Is there a way to pull the back timing chain off or partially off without pulling the motor so I can take the passenger side head off of a 2003 Mountaineer??

 

[2000StreetRod]

Head removal

If your SOHC V6 is like mine then the head can be removed without pulling the engine or transmission. The rear cassette is shown in the photo below by ipwizard.

Notice that there is a slot at one end of the guide assembly. The slot matches a post in the head to keep the traction side of the guide assembly in position. There is a small diameter Torx head bolt that fits thru the pivot bushing in the opposite end of the guide assembly and screws into the block as shown in the photo below. It is right of the removed jackshaft plug.

To remove the right head you must unscrew the rear chain tensioner (shown in the photo below by CDW6212R)

to slack the chain, wrap a strong rubber band around the chain at the lower part of the camshaft sprocket to retain the chain, and then unbolt the camshaft sprocket. Then lift the head while allowing the sprocket with chain to pass thru the casting. Two people will probably be required - one to lift the head and one to feed the sprocket with chain thru the casting. A strong cord or wire attached to the sprocket will simplify the process. Once the head is reinstalled, the camshaft will have to be retimed which normally requires a special tool set as shown in the photo below.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread into the stock 2002-2005 section.