Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2024 Ford Transit-350 HD, 2024 Ford Transit-350, 2024 Ford Transit-250, and 2024 Ford Transit-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 VCT oil control solenoids are 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 LHVCT unit bolts.

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Remove the LHVCT 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 VCT oil control solenoids are 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 RHVCT unit bolts.

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Remove the RHVCT 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.

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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 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