Timing Chain: Installation

2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

LH timing chain 

  1. Install the timing chain sprocket.
    GFD553848Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  2. NOTE: The crankshaft sprocket is reversible with a timing mark on each face. For installation of each timing chain, utilize the timing mark on the front face of the crankshaft sprocket for chain alignment.

    1. Install the LH timing chain with the single colored links aligned with the timing marks on the VCT units.
    2. Install the double colored links so they straddle the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket.

    GFD553858Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  3. Install the LH timing chain tensioner arm.
    GFD553845Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  4. Position the tensioner in a soft-jawed vise.
    GFD553859Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  5. NOTE: Use of a commercially available tools with a curved radius in the range of 10mm - 15mm is suggested for use in resetting the ratchet clip. Examples are a 8mm closed end wrench, 12x12mm piece of bar stock, T40 to T50 Torx screwdriver or 3/8 wobble style socket extender.

    Using a commercially available wrench, push down on the ratchet clip so the ratchet clip pushes outward.

    GFD553860Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
    1. Using the soft-jawed vise, compress the piston to the reset position.
    2. Install a locking pin in the 2 holes of the tensioner body to hold the piston in place.
    3. Remove the commercially available tool and the tensioner.
    GFD553861Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  6. Position the LH timing chain tensioner with the end of the tensioner correctly engaged to the tensioner arm and install the fasteners.

    Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm); Stage 2: 30°

    GFD553862Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  7. Install the LH timing chain guide and bolts.

    Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm); Stage 2: 30°

    GFD553863Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  8. Remove the tensioner pins.
    GFD553864Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  9. Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1655 Tool, Camshaft Holding.
    GFD553842Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  10. Install Special Service Tool: 303-1655 Tool, Camshaft Holding.
    GFD553865Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    RH timing chain 

  11. NOTE: The crankshaft sprocket is reversible with a timing mark on each face. For installation of each timing chain, utilize the timing mark on the front face of the crankshaft sprocket for chain alignment.

    1. Install the RH timing chain with the single colored links aligned with the timing marks on the VCT units.
    2. Install the double colored links so they straddle the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket.

    GFD553866Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  12. Install the RH timing chain tensioner arm.
    GFD553838Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  13. Position the tensioner in a soft-jawed vise.
    GFD553867Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  14. NOTE: Use of a commercially available tools with a curved radius in the range of 10mm - 15mm is suggested for use in resetting the ratchet clip. Examples are a 8mm closed end wrench, 12x12mm piece of bar stock, T40 to T50 Torx screwdriver or 3/8 wobble style socket extender.

    Using a commercially available wrench, push down on the ratchet clip so the ratchet clip pushes outward.

    GFD553860Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
    1. Using the soft-jawed vise, compress the piston to the reset position.
    2. Install a locking pin in the 2 holes of the tensioner body to hold the piston in place.
    3. Remove the commercially available tool and the tensioner.
    GFD553861Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  15. Position the RH timing chain tensioner with the end of the tensioner correctly engaged to the tensioner arm and install the fasteners.

    Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm); Stage 2: 30°

    GFD553868Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  16. Install the RH timing chain guide and bolts.

    Torque: Stage 1: 89 lb.in (10 Nm); Stage 2: 30°

    GFD553869Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  17. Remove the tensioner pins.
    GFD553870Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  18. Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1655 Tool, Camshaft Holding.
    GFD553871Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

    RH and LH timing chains 

  19. Install the engine front cover. Refer to: Engine Front Cover .
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.