1998 Explorer timing chain - 4.0 SOHC

GOODS71

MEMBER
1998 FORD EXPLORER

1998 Ford Explorer Sport 2 dr 4.0 SOHC engine (VIN E)

The timing chain tensioner is loose and causing a lot of noise and performance problems. Fairly common defect for these engines I understand.

It was repaired under a Ford warranty program at around 65,000 miles. Now I'm having the same issue with 94,000 miles. According to the dealership, they give 12 months/12,000 miles after the repair. Ford's program covered up to 6 yr/72,000 miles on this specific repair.

My questions:
1) Am I out of luck as far as Ford covering this again, seeing as it's a repeat of the original problem?
2) If so, is there a way to get to the timing chain without having to remove the engine from the truck? Possibly by removing the radiator, fan, front clip, etc. Until I can get access?

Thanks guys. Much appreciated.

3 Replies

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Hello
to answer the first question honestly I m not familiar with ford warranties but
I think you’re out of luck on that
2nd if you are to tackle a timing chain job on that truck
I suggest you buy Manuel and it will explain the job step by step
no need to pull the engine out

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Saturday, September 15th, 2007 AT 7:34 PM

GUSED82

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1 POST

I am working on the same project, and it took me one hour and half to get to the front chain, this is what I removed by order radiator, alternator, fan, clip on the left head(passenger side) water pump, crank shaft pulley, I did have to remove the left clip where the A/c and power stering is, BUT very important>DO NOT BRAKE any lines and wacht out for the sensors around>well I will se what happend tomorrow with the rest of the project. Hope that help

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Monday, October 29th, 2007 AT 12:17 AM

RLIND

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HI, How did you make out with the timing chain? I have the same problem. Did you pull the motor or you were able to work with it in the truck. Did you replace camshaft chain too? Any help you can give me would be great.

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Sunday, November 4th, 2007 AT 5:32 PM