timing chain...what would you do?

[schusdad]

I just bought a '98 explorer with a 4.0l SOHC engine with 169,000 miles on it and it has a pretty good timing chain rattle when warmed up. Should I just pull the front of the engine and replace the guides and all the tensioners, or should I pull the whole engine and replace all the guides tensioners and chains. I am a mechanic with 25+ years of experience so doing the work isn't an issue. I just don't want to do things I don't need to do as I am not familiar with this engine.

 

[swetrid]

Pull it and do it all at the same time.

 

[apuszczalowski]

I would suggest coming over to my house and doing mine first to get the feel for it and then doing your own

 

[Glen4X4]

I would do the rear and front timing chain guides and tensioners. Do it while the engine is out.

 

[2000StreetRod]

SOHC V6 Timing Chain Inspection & Repair

SOHC V6 Timing Chain Inspection & Repair

If you plan to keep the vehicle for many years, have the tools, time and funds I suggest you replace all of the timing chain related components to get the latest updates and increased reliability. If any of the above are not true then I suggest that you replace only what is broken. My rear guide broke at around 150,000 miles. I was lucky that the chain did not slip and there was no damage to the valves or pistons. See my helpful threads for more info on timing chain related issues.

 

[69Mach1]

Pull it and do it all at the same time.

+1
You'll sleep better at night.