1998 Ranger 4x4 4.0L timing tensioner issue

[86mustanggt]

Hello. I have a 1998 Ranger XLT 4x4 4dr 4.0L pushrod 5R55E. This truck has a reoccurring issue with the hydraulic timing chain tensioner. The entire timing assy, chain gears and hyd tensioner were replaced at 53k miles. That still didn't remove all the noise. It has 115k miles now and the noise has come back with a vengeance. I am wondering if earlier 4.0L engines may have non-hydraulic tensioners. What I mean is a chain and gear set that fits tight like a normal small block Ford and doesn't need a tensioner. If such a timing set exists, will it fit my 1998 4.0L. I would imagine an oil port would need to be plugged. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[RonD]

No, doesn't exist

4.0l OHV chain tensioner was never an issue I have seen or even read about in 20+ years, I am sure it has happened just never read about it or a fix for it besides changing the gears, chain, guide and tensioner

With timing chain and tensioner off, spark plugs removed
Crank engine over with starter, its a non-interference engine so pistons can't hit open valves
Make sure there is good oil flow out the tensioners oil hole
Could be a clogged oil passage

 

[86mustanggt]

No, doesn't exist

4.0l OHV chain tensioner was never an issue I have seen or even read about in 20+ years, I am sure it has happened just never read about it or a fix for it besides changing the gears, chain, guide and tensioner

With timing chain and tensioner off, spark plugs removed
Crank engine over with starter, its a non-interference engine so pistons can't hit open valves
Make sure there is good oil flow out the tensioners oil hole
Could be a clogged oil passage

I am going to replace all of it soon and I will do what you said about checking the oil port going to the tensioner. I did some research myself on a couple auto parts sites going back to the first year of the 4.0L OHV and it has always had a hydraulic tensioner. I've searched through my factory manuals and could not find any reference to a normal oil psi for the tensioner. I appreciate your help.