Timing chains need replaced?

[Brasilnut]

my 98 xlt SOHC 4.0 with about 60,000 is producing a irregular tick/clatter from the engine. It is hard to figure cause sometimes it does it cold, sometimes hot and sometimes not at all. It only does it on start up and sometimes goes away after just 5 seconds and other times only after 5 minutes. Maybe a lubrication issue? I've been told maybe timing chain/s but how can I know for sure? If so, what all do I have to replace, chains(I guess there are four total), tensioners, cassettes and what all gaskets will need replaced. Should I order the kit for the whole engine? For that matter what all should be replaced or serviced while I'm in there?

Thanks for any help or advice you all might have.

PS. I'm thinking of doing the work myself. Is this sane or should I not even try it? I've pulled and replaced engines/transmissions before and replaced the crank and main bearings in my j**p cherokee once too. Is this much harder?

 

[00XLS]

Not extremely familar with that engine but there was a recall about this kind of thing. 00m12 I think it was called, someone with more experience will chime in at some point.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Brasilnut, run a search for 00M12 an 01M01. Those Ford owner notification programs extend the warranty of the parts in question on the SOHC engine. You should find some recent threads with write-ups on how to replace parts yourself.