I've pretty much come to the conclusion that my van is having timing issues and now I'm considering replacing the timing chain/sprockets. Therefore I have an important decision to make based on the following question - Does the engine have to be REMOVED in order to replace the timing chain/sprockets? According to my Haynes book, the answer is yes. I'm hoping someone has managed to remove the timing cover without having to remove the engine. Help please!

It seems like it would be possible by first removing the water pump, since the water pump is right above the crankshaft damper pulley. Let me know. thx

 

http://www.justanswer.com/uploads/mu...43856_1121.pdf

This refers to a '98 3.8L. I did not read it, but I hope it helps you with your decision.

Blue

 

thx blue
In the end, I'm not having timing chain issues but my van is ultimately having clutch problems as described in this post > http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_AXOD_transmission AND https://www.fordforum.com/forum/wind...lippage-19230/. Specifically, "Intermediate clutch failures resulting in poor 1-2 shifts or slipping are common on all AX family members." My van slips between 1 and 2. Unfortunately, anything involving the transmission, clutch, or timing chain, will require the engine and frame to be dropped in order to fix the problem. So I just thought I'd include this post in order to inform people.

 

LOOK at the youtube channel of mine, called ' Larry Wisda ' and you will find a complete remove and replace and diagnosis of timing chain problems. Please watch 1-6 before beginning as I show how to diagnose and check timing.