St questions

[02blkTrac]

I have a 02 ST with 191000 miles on it and so far no big issues with it. Did have a PCV code awhile back changed the valve and cleaned the MAF and all was good. I have no noise from the engine oil changes done regularly and other than the tie rod ends I'm needing to replace all good mechanically. Question is what do i need to watch or listen for on these trucks.

 

[koda2000]

timing chains (the big one)
rotten foam body mount bushings
fuel pump (if not recently replaced)
radiator and water pump (if not recently replaced)
upper control arms and lower ball joints
if 4WD front hub assemblies
vacuum leaks if you start seeing P171/174 ODB II codes, but the Job 2 engine's intake gaskets are usually not an issue

Everything else if pretty much fluid changes and regular
automotive maintenance on a vehicle with nearly 200K.

Some will suggest replacing the timing chain tentioners every 75K, but I'd say as long as the engine is quiet, leave it alone. A pre-oiler is a great addition for keeping 4.0L SOHC engines alive.

 

[02blkTrac]

I'm the second owner of this ST the one before had the dealer take care of services. This pre-oiler where can i find that. Other than the high miles its really clean no rust some rock chips on the lower bed corners and the ugly gen 2 rims that the clear coat is well no longer in existence. I bought it with 164000 last august and have put close to 30000 on already i like this truck and want to keep it around to give to my son in 4 years when he turns 16.

 

[koda2000]

There are 2 types of pre-oilers. One uses an electric pump to pressurize the engine with oil and fill the timing chain tensioners so that they're ready to go when the engine is started. The second type uses a oil pressure storage tank/accumulator, so no pump is necessary. For my money and for the simplicity I think the accumulator style makes more sense. I believe member @donalds recently installed this type of pre-oiler on his 4.0L SOHC, into which he installed a reman engine. I suggest you contact him for more info (though I'm sure he'll see this post and respond).

What I've been doing with my '01 ST is to crank the engine for a few seconds (5 'ish) with my foot to the floor on the gas pedal on cold starts. Doing this turns off the fuel injectors which keeps the engine from starting until I lift my foot. This puts a little extra wear on the starter motor, but I've been doing it for 4 years with no problems. I call it "the poor man's pre-oiler".

 

[donalds]

Engine Pre Lube System Insta-Lube Kit

 

[ptf18]

Yup to what Koda says. Wife's '02 (bought new) has 235k on it. Replaced the engine at 134k due to the chain issue. All in all its been a good vehicle. Most important deal is... Mama loves it (still) ... I just keep it rolling. Really needs paint but...