Expected lifespan of the chain guides

2008 FORD EXPLORER
101,000 MILES • 4.0L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TYPE85
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What is the expected lifespan of chain tensioners on the SUV listed above?
It looks like the previous owner took good car of it (regular oil changes etc.), only 90,000 miles in 10 years when I bought it.
I understand they redesigned the tensioners in 2004?
I'd like to sell it before the tensioners break and need to be replaced.
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May 13, 2020 at 2:28 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

The life of the tensioners is 150,000 according to Ford.

That does not mean they will last that long, it just means that is the recommended time to change them. It all depends on the care the engine has received during it life with services.

the tensioners are external and can be replaced easily without much effort. I attached pictures and procedures for you.

Roy
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May 13, 2020 at 3:36 AM
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TYPE85
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Sorry, I meant the chain guides!
May 13, 2020 at 11:55 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Okay, they are completely different. They are plastic and I would say about 100,000 is the time for them. they are common failure and cause the chains to slack off and loose power.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-timing-belt-works

This is much more involved repair than the tensioner.

According to the book, you are looking at around $1,000.00 for parts and labor.

Roy







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May 13, 2020 at 12:14 PM