Camshaft End Play - Push Rod Engines

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tool(s)

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool(s)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the valve tappets. Refer to ENGINE - 3.9L & 4.2L for the procedure.
Use a Dial Indicator Gauge with Holding Fixture to measure camshaft end play.
Position the camshaft to the rear of the cylinder block.
Zero the indicator.
Move the camshaft to the front of the cylinder block. Note and record the camshaft end play.

If the camshaft end play exceeds specifications, install a new camshaft thrust plate. Refer to ENGINE - 3.9L & 4.2L for the procedure.

Fig 2: Measuring Camshaft End Play

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.