Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit: Removal

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.

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 may cause engine failure.

All variable camshaft timing (VCT) unit

Remove the timing chain. Refer to: Timing Chain .
LH variable camshaft timing (VCT) unit
NOTE: The exhaust VCT oil control solenoid is removed for clarity.

Compress the LH secondary timing chain tensioner and install the special tool in the hole on the rear of the secondary timing chain tensioner guide and let it hold against the mega cap to retain the tensioner in the collapsed position. Use Special Service Tool: 303-1530 Tool, Chain Tensioner Hold Down.

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Remove and discard the LH VCT unit bolts.

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Remove the LH VCT units.

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Replacement of the LH secondary timing chain tensioner

NOTE: The following 4 steps are only for the replacement of the secondary timing chain tensioner. Do not reuse the secondary timing chain tensioner if removed, or damage to the engine may occur.
Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1530 Tool, Chain Tensioner Hold Down.

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NOTE: A slight twisting motion will aid in the removal of the VCT oil control solenoid.

NOTE: Keep the VCT oil control solenoid clean of dirt and debris.

Remove the bolt and the exhaust VCT oil control solenoid.

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Remove the LH secondary timing chain tensioner shoe.

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Remove the LH secondary timing chain tensioner by pushing up from the bottom.

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RH variable camshaft timing (VCT) unit
NOTE: The exhaust VCT oil control solenoid is removed for clarity.

Compress the RH secondary timing chain tensioner and install the special tool in the hole on the rear of the secondary timing chain tensioner guide and let it hold against the mega cap to retain the tensioner in the collapsed position. Use Special Service Tool: 303-1530 Tool, Chain Tensioner Hold Down.

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Remove and discard the RH VCT unit bolts.

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Remove the RH VCT units.

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Replacement of the RH secondary timing chain tensioner

NOTE: The following 4 steps are only for the replacement of the secondary timing chain tensioners. Do not reuse the secondary timing chain tensioners if removed, or damage to the engine may occur.
Remove Special Service Tool: 303-1530 Tool, Chain Tensioner Hold Down.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: A slight twisting motion will aid in the removal of the VCT oil control solenoid.

NOTE: Keep the VCT oil control solenoid clean of dirt and debris.

Remove the bolt and the exhaust VCT oil control solenoid.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Remove the RH secondary timing chain tensioner shoe.

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Remove the RH secondary timing chain tensioner by pushing up from the bottom.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY