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.

2003 Ford Windstar BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Timing Chain: Removal

Remove the timing cover. For additional information, refer to ENGINE FRONT COVER .
Remove the camshaft position sensor drive gear.
1. Remove the bolt.
2. Remove the camshaft position sensor drive gear.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Camshaft Position Sensor Drive Gear
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Rotate the crankshaft (6303) until the timing marks and keyways align.

Fig 2: Aligning Crankshaft (6303) Timing Marks & Keyways
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Compress and install a retaining pin to hold the timing chain tensioner (6L266).

Fig 3: Identifying Timing Chain Tensioner (6L266) Retaining Pin
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the camshaft sprocket (6256), the crankshaft sprocket (6306) and the timing chain/belt (6268) as an assembly.

Fig 4: Removing Timing Chain Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the timing chain tensioner.
1. Remove the bolts.
2. Remove the timing chain tensioner.
  
  Fig 5: Identifying Timing Chain Tensioner Bolt
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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