Originally posted by warmonger:
Ok, I just have to say this. All I did was read the timing instructions in the ford manual and timed the damn thing. I have a 99 and I'm thinking the motor is actually a 98. However, I turned the key and the damn thing started right up. I put fire to her two nights ago. I actually drove it with a big grin on my face Saturday (yesterday).
My timing chains had little colored marks on them and it was very easy to time it.
warmonger
BTW, after you time the cams and release the tensioners, then just take a ratchet and turn the crank by hand through two full rotations. This way if the pistons and valves touch you can have a good idea that your timing is off. Now I know this isn't perfect advice, but it gets you into the ballpark.
The problem with that proceedure Warmonger is that some timing chains are mismarked, some timing marks are worn off due to use, and some people don't know how to keep chain slack in check while lining up these marks. It will get you in the ball park, but the car will still run without imediate physical damage one tooth off advanced or retarded on the cam. The ball park isn't close enough for the poor soul who gets to disassemble the engine a second time because he's one tooth off on one bank or both.
Borrow a degree wheel from an engine shop at the very least. Someone there should be able to teach you how to use it, or at the very least try to find basic instructions online. If you have everything marked down from disassembling the engine, you can run the same degree settings on the rebuild.
