Noise and Error Codes after Timing Chain and Phaser Replacement?

2018 FORD F-150
185,000 MILES • 3.5L • TURBO • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
PROSKIER871
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Prior to changing the Timing Chain and Phasers engine would rattle at startup until oil pressure increased. After replacing the Phasers, Timing Chains, Crank Grear, Guides and Slides and both tensioners and setting the timing marks correctly while using the Camshaft locking tool and placing the Crank Gear at the 11:00 position, Replaced PCV and all 6 spark plugs, cleaned sensors and replaced all seals on covers. All went very well and got everything together and rotated the engine by hand 30 rotations to ensure all was clear... time for the turn over, removed Fuel pump fuse and cycled engine for 30 seconds (New Oil and Antifreeze installed) to get oil into engine. Placed fuse back in, cleared codes that were produced and fired engine up. It ran so smooth and quiet, turned off and one 6 times after letting engine run for 5 minutes in between starts to verify all was good before the extended run. When I started for the extended run, I let it run for 30 minutes. After that initial run I let the truck sit over night to cool down. Started it the next day and heard a tapping noise and the check engine light came on with several errors (P0019, P0018, P0073, P04DB). I immediately turned truck off. I have now ordered many parts Camshaft Position Sensors (4x), MAP Sensor, Ambient Air Intake Sensor (2x), TA-357 and so much more incase of having to do a complete tare down again. I have included Pictures of the process and the Timing Chain Positions on Phasers and Gear along with the Crankshaft Gear. I would like to know if I am missing anything and how can this be resolved.
Jul 16, 2026 at 10:37 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hmmm, the timing looks right, Can I ask if you used OEM parts? Also, I can't the see the timing chain tensioner for the left bank, is it there and is it new? also when you star the engine what is the oil pressure? I would not brother with the sensors they are not the problem. I have seen the engine oil pump screen get clogged with gasket material etc which it kind of sounds like what happened. When you took the engine apart the first time did you find broken timing chain guides?
Jul 17, 2026 at 12:05 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Also, check the screens for the VVT control solenoids to see if they are clogged bank 2.

P0018 — Crankshaft/Camshaft correlation, Bank 2 intake cam
P0019 — Crankshaft/Camshaft correlation, Bank 2 exhaust cam

So these will not make noise. FYI

P04DB — Crankcase ventilation system disconnected
P0073 — Ambient-air-temperature sensor circuit high

Let me know,
Jul 17, 2026 at 12:21 AM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 15,200 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Those don't look like OE parts, that looks like the Dorman mark. Unfortunately those do not have a good record in the timing systems on those engines as they fail very rapidly. Most of the Ford repair guys I know will refuse to use anything but OEM for the timing parts and the high volume pump from Melling because the aftermarket parts have such a bad reputation for failing. The common failure is the phasers go bad or the chains break. Have seen both myself.
Jul 17, 2026 at 1:44 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.