Front Timing Chain Hydraulic Tensioner Disaster Averted

[Duncan Kimbro]

Thanks Tim. Got it last Wednesday and really enjoying it.

 

[Carl Judy]

After you read this thread it's obvious I'm no expert regarding hydraulic timing chain tensioners. Strange thing is many reliable sources say Ford's replacement interval is 75,000-80,000 miles, but I've never seen that written in Ford manuals. I believe the key indicators of trouble is a cold start up rattle and chain slap driving in second gear typically between 2000-3000 RPM's. I DID have an intermittent start up rattle regardless of the engine being hot or cold, and don't believe replacing both tensioners improved the condition. If you're at 250,000 miles and haven't experienced any timing chain guide or oil pressure issues you are obviously doing something very right. IMO, keep changing the oil and filter at your present intervals and don't change a thing. Now about your 5R55E @ 250K. You have a "miracle" Gen 1 ST if the transmission has also been trouble free with just routine maintenance. May be time for you to win a lottery.

Here's that "rattle" TSB that lists 2001-2002 Sport Tracs, but doesn't apply to 2003-05.
http://www.bbbind.com/tsb-wiring-diagrams-database-results/?type=TSB&years=2001&make=52&makeDesc=Ford&model=1586&modelDesc=Explorer Sport Trac&system=12&systemDesc=Gasoline Engines&docid=6631419

TSB's and Wiring Diagrams (Register for FREE new account)
https://www.bbbind.com/tsb-wiring-diagrams-database/

Is a transmission problem common? I have over 217K on mine and pull a 24 ft boat and have for yrs. never had any problem. U got me worried now. Mines an 01 ST 4wd.

 

[swshawaii]

^ Sorry Carl, just saw your post above. 5R55 series transmissions are known to have issues after 100,000 miles or complete failures without towing heavy loads. Judging by your past projects and rebuilds preventative maintenance on your vehicles is second nature. It's common knowledge the key to longevity to engines and transmissions is keeping fluids clean and cool as possible. There are hundreds of threads from many Ford forums regarding the 5R55E's various issues if you search. Found just one of many from EF that may be of interest to you, but there are MANY more on the internet. Good luck.

ATF oil cooler
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/oil-coolers.247990/

 

[Carl Judy]

^ Sorry Carl, just saw your post above. 5R55 series transmissions are known to have issues after 100,000 miles or complete failures without towing heavy loads. Judging by your past projects and rebuilds preventative maintenance on your vehicles is second nature. It's common knowledge the key to longevity to engines and transmissions is keeping fluids clean and cool as possible. There are hundreds of threads from many Ford forums regarding the 5R55E's various issues if you search. Found just one of many from EF that may be of interest to you, but there are MANY more on the internet. Good luck.

ATF oil cooler
https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/index.php?threads/oil-coolers.247990/

Thank u