Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

NOTE: During engine repair procedures, cleanliness is extremely important. Any foreign material, including any material created while cleaning gasket surfaces, that enters the oil passages, coolant passages or the oil pan, can cause engine failure.

NOTE: If the RHVCT units are being serviced at the same time as the LHVCT units, remove the RHVCT units first.

Right hand units

Remove the RH timing chain. Refer to: Timing Chain .
Remove and discard the intake and exhaust VCT assembly bolts.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
1. Depress the secondary timing chain tensioner.
2. Turn the tensioner counterclockwise 90 degrees.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Valve spring pressure will rotate the intake camshaft after the VCT units are removed.
1. Using a wrench on the flats of the camshaft, have an assistant hold the intake camshaft in position to prevent valve spring pressure from binding the locating pin of the VCT in the end of the camshaft.
2. Slide the VCT units and secondary timing chain off of the camshafts as an assembly.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Left hand units
Remove the LH timing chain. Refer to: Timing Chain .
Remove and discard the intake and exhaust VCT assembly bolts.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
1. Depress the secondary timing chain tensioner.
2. Turn the tensioner counterclockwise 90 degrees.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Valve spring pressure will rotate the intake camshaft after the VCT units are removed.
1. Using a wrench on the flats of the camshaft, have an assistant hold the intake camshaft in position to prevent valve spring pressure from binding the locating pin of the VCT in the end of the camshaft.
2. Slide the VCT units and secondary timing chain off of the camshafts as an assembly.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY