p1381 chugging car

[Burbaq]

http://www.contour.org/ubbthreads/s...238661&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=7&fpart=1

Ok I want to continue from this post, my check engine light finally came on and it's code P1381. I look it up and it says this Cam Timing Advance is excessive.

So it is my conclusion that the shop that changed my pullies and belt didn't set it up right. The first time they set it up the belt broke on me and they replaced it free, the second time is when all this started to happen.

I think the warrenty they put on it is expired, can I make them fix the timing on it?

 

[Dec1000]

The code P1381 can be caused by a mechanical problem with the cam gear assembly, a bad VCT solenoid, or a problem with contaminated engine oil. First thing to try is change oil. If that doesn't take care of it, most likely VCT solenoid.

 

[Burbaq]

well would it have anything to do with timing chain and pullies? My car has been kicking since february, and that is when I had repairs done to it, I tried changing the oil back then and also the plugs but those fixes didn't work. Is it related to the changing of pullies and the belt and they didn't get the timing right?

 

[Tony2005]

... Is it related to the changing of pullies and the belt and they didn't get the timing right?

Maybe. ......

 

[Dec1000]

When dealing with the VCT Solenoid on the Zetec engine the timing has to be perfect. I have posted many times before, if you don't get the timing right you will get the code P1380 or P1381 or P1383. When the timing belt is put on, the cam pulleys have to be loose when you set the tensioner. If the tension is not set right your belt will walk on the pulleys. If you got the code right after they did the timing belt and you had no codes before I would think the timing is off. If the timing is right then you will probably have to replace the VCT solenoid.