Head replacement in vehicle. Timing chain cover

Discussion in '1993 - 1997 Ford Ranger' started by Tomcatt, Jul 26, 2020.

  1. Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    I am replacing heads, is there any way to check replace timing parts without pulling motor?
     
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  3. OP
    Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    Btw 97 4.0 pushrod motor.
     
  4. DeanMk

    DeanMk Member

    Looks like this, right?

    [​IMG]

    If you think (or know) its original, I would swap the chain out as a matter of "piece-of-mind".
    Nothing to make you feel more stupid that to go through all that, only to have it throw the chain in a month's time, because you failed to replace it while it was apart the first time.
    The tensioners (long pieces on both sides, up against chain) should by a nylon insert to help keep wear down on the chain.
    If they have really deep grooves in them, probably best to replace.
    I don't know if there's a spec for (or even an "official" way to check) spring tension on those tensioners, but you can probably work them with your hand and see if they "feel weak".


    Dean
     
    Last edited: Jul 27, 2020
  5. OP
    Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    Can I replace without taking off the oil pan. Or while it's in the vehicle? Looks like the front seal would keep you from pulling timing cover up off the pan seal, or it would be hard sliding timing cover back on while going across pan gasket? Or am I over thinking it?
     
  6. DeanMk

    DeanMk Member

    If the pan seals the timing cover (like on a SBC), then you'll have to remove the pan, too.
     
  7. OP
    Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    I was afraid of that. Looks like pull motor, at least it'll be easier to remove components. I didn't want to have to buy a picker and stand yet. Unless someone has a way to do it in vehicle.
     
  8. DeanMk

    DeanMk Member

    Do you have enough room to just drop the pan far enough to clear the timing chain cover?
     
  9. OP
    Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    Thanks DeanMK.
     
  10. OP
    Tomcatt

    Tomcatt New Member

    I'll be disassembling it this weekend, to see where the leak is on rear cylinder. I got dye penetrant at work, I hope its the head gasket, does anyone know where to purchase a low budget rocker shaft assembly? Heads, chain, gasket set.
     
  11. DeanMk

    DeanMk Member

    Cherry picker and engine stand should be available at your local Rent-it-Center.
     

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