2003 ranger 4.0 timing chain questions

[jagarcia89]

I just bought a 2003 ranger with 113k. I am curious on some timing chain stuff. How many miles can these things go? Anyone have good sources on how to do it? I hear these have 3 timing chains, anyone know why or for what purpose each serves? I have taken an engine removal and rebuild class and have done multiple timing chains but never a motor with 3 and never on this motor. Any help is appreciated.

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Its an OHC engine so there is a chain to each cam shaft...there is also a balance shaft which is driven by the 3rd chain.

 

[jagarcia89]

Its an OHC engine so there is a chain to each cam shaft...there is also a balance shaft which is driven by the 3rd chain.

Ok makes sense. So do I need to even worry about the balance chain? And about how many miles are people goin before the cam chains? Anyone know if these are interferance motors?

 

[Ranger44]

I think what you are hearing are the problems with the older sohc's. By the time the SOHC was put into the ranger, the problem was almost gone in the SOHC>

 

[jagarcia89]

I think what you are hearing are the problems with the older sohc's. By the time the SOHC was put into the ranger, the problem was almost gone in the SOHC>

I haven't heard any problems. what problems are you referring to?

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

The early SOHC's had problems with the timing chain cassettes falling apart allowing the chains to slap around making a horrid racket. Ford updated the cassettes and the problem has pretty much gone away with the 02 and newer engines.