Timing Chain & Sprockets: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1995 Ford Aerostar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Position No. 1 piston at TDC of compression stroke. Remove timing chain cover. See TIMING CHAIN COVER . Remove oil pan. Refer to OIL PAN .
Ensure all timing marks are aligned. See Figure. Check cams haft end play. If end play is not within specification, replace camshaft thrust plate. See CAMSHAFT table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.
Retract timing chain tensioner and install packaging clip from new tensioner or one that you have fabricated. Remove camshaft sprocket retaining bolt and crankshaft sprocket Woodruff key. Remove tensioner and guide rail; replace worn parts as necessary. Remove crankshaft, camshaft sprockets and timing chain as an assembly.
If crankshaft sprocket is difficult to remove, carefully pry off with a pair of screwdrivers positioned evenly on sprocket.