Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2002 Ford Excursion 4WD V10-6.8LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Timing Component Alignment Marks: Locations
CAUTION: Since the engine is not free-wheeling, if the crankshaft or the camshafts are moved in any manner during removal and installation the crankshaft and camshaft must be resynchronized.
CAUTION: Unless otherwise instructed, at no time when the timing chain are removed and the cylinder heads are installed may the crankshaft or camshaft be rotated. Severe piston and valve damage will occur.
CAUTION: Timing chain procedures must be followed exactly or damage to valves and pistons will result.
CAUTION: Rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise only. Do not rotate past the position shown or severe piston and/or valve damage can occur.

Position the crankshaft with the keyway at the 12 o'clock position.

NOTE: There are 61 links in each timing chain.
If copper links are not visible, mark two links on one end and one link on the other end, and use as timing marks.

Install the crankshaft sprocket and lower end of the LH (inner) timing chain, aligning the timing marks.

Install the timing chain on the camshaft sprocket with the two chain links and timing marks aligned.

NOTE: Be sure the chain link and crankshaft sprocket timing marks are aligned.
- Install the RH (outer) timing chain on the crankshaft sprocket.
- Position the timing chain on the camshaft sprocket. Make sure the two copper-colored links align with the camshaft sprocket timing mark.

Check for correct alignment of all timing marks.

Using the index mark on the balance shaft, mark the corresponding gear tooth with chalk.

NOTE: It may be necessary to use an inspection mirror to see the marks.
Align the chalk mark on the balance shaft with the camshaft timing mark as shown.
CAUTION: Unless otherwise instructed, at no time when the timing chain are removed and the cylinder heads are installed may the crankshaft or camshaft be rotated. Severe piston and valve damage will occur.
CAUTION: Timing chain procedures must be followed exactly or damage to valves and pistons will result.
CAUTION: Rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise only. Do not rotate past the position shown or severe piston and/or valve damage can occur.
Position the crankshaft with the keyway at the 12 o'clock position.
NOTE: There are 61 links in each timing chain.
If copper links are not visible, mark two links on one end and one link on the other end, and use as timing marks.
Install the crankshaft sprocket and lower end of the LH (inner) timing chain, aligning the timing marks.
Install the timing chain on the camshaft sprocket with the two chain links and timing marks aligned.
NOTE: Be sure the chain link and crankshaft sprocket timing marks are aligned.
- Install the RH (outer) timing chain on the crankshaft sprocket.
- Position the timing chain on the camshaft sprocket. Make sure the two copper-colored links align with the camshaft sprocket timing mark.
Check for correct alignment of all timing marks.
Using the index mark on the balance shaft, mark the corresponding gear tooth with chalk.
NOTE: It may be necessary to use an inspection mirror to see the marks.
Align the chalk mark on the balance shaft with the camshaft timing mark as shown.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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