Installation (All Models)

CAUTION: DO NOT replace camshaft sprocket retaining bolt with standard bolt. Original camshaft bolt has a drilled oil passage.

Lubricate camshaft lobes and journals with heavy SAE 50W engine oil. Carefully slide camshaft through bearings in cylinder block. Install thrust plate and recheck camshaft end play. Install timing chain and sprocket as an assembly.
Ensure crankshaft and camshaft sprockets are aligned. See Figure. Install camshaft sprocket washer and retaining bolt, and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Lubricate valve lifters and bores with heavy SAE 50W engine oil.
Install lifters in their original bores. Lubricate push rods with heavy SAE 50W engine oil. Install push rods in their original location. For each valve, rotate crankshaft until lifter rests on heel of camshaft lobe. Position rocker arm over push rod and install fulcrum.
Tighten rocker arm bolt to 97 INCH lbs. (11 N.m). After all rocker arms have been installed, tighten rocker arm bolts (camshaft may be in any position) to a final torque of 24 ft. lbs. (32 N.m). To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

CAUTION: A special tool and procedure are required to properly install camshaft position sensor synchronizer. Failure to do so during installation will cause fuel injection to be out of time and may cause engine damage.

Install camshaft position sensor synchronizer. For installation procedure, see:
1. 1996 Aerostar
  
  REMOVE/INSTALL/OVERHAUL - 3.0L article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE
2. 1997 Aerostar
  
  REMOVE/INSTALL/OVERHAUL - 3.0L article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE
3. 1996 Ranger
  
  REMOVE/INSTALL/OVERHAUL - 3.0L article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE
4. 1997 Ranger
  
  REMOVE/INSTALL/OVERHAUL - 3.0L article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Fill or top off all fluids. Fill cooling system. Start engine and check for leaks. Check and adjust ignition timing as necessary.