Timing chain issues at 20k miles

[4gen]

So I just had my 2018 Expy Max in for cam phasers replacement at the dealership. It came back a day later than expected. It turns out, based on the paperwork, that the timing chain was lose. So they also replaced the chain and both tensioners in addition to the cam phasers TSB.

The truck is 2yo and has only 20k miles on it. I haven't seen anyone else complaining about the 4th gen timing chain yet on here. Curious if others are having the same issue.

 

[Artie]

So I just had my 2018 Expy Max in for cam phasers replacement at the dealership. It came back a day later than expected. It turns out, based on the paperwork, that the timing chain was lose. So they also replaced the chain and both tensioners in addition to the cam phasers TSB.

The truck is 2yo and has only 20k miles on it. I haven't seen anyone else complaining about the 4th gen timing chain yet on here. Curious if others are having the same issue.

1st I’ve heard of timing chains...

 

[Timmaaay4]

Both of mine were replaced due to being stretched as well with the vct tsb

Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk

 

[duneslider]

I have heard unofficially that they are not really stretched but some places are replacing them because its all out anyway and they make extra money...

 

[Deadman]

The 18 Navigator I just bought had 17K miles on it. It had the Phasers done TWICE and one set of timing chains, tensioners,... Maybe even 2 sets of timing chains, I'm not sure. Seemed crazy, but glad they're new!

 

[4gen]

The thing is... they claimed that after replacing cam phasers, the engine was still making the rattling noise. So they had to replace the timing chain the next day after getting the parts. No rattle so far today.

 

[NukeLife]

That sounds sketchy.

When they did mine, the mechanic told me before he even started working on it that the TSB would replace the chain, the tensioners, the guides, all four VCT phasers, etc.

 

[4gen]

The phasers TSB doesn't list the chain and tensioners as replaceable parts. And in fact, Ford explicitly prohibits replacing additional timing components "Do not replace any additional VCT or engine timing related components not included in the Parts List"
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10177121-0001.pdf

I'm guessing/hoping the mechanics know that timing chains need to be replaced anyway and find a reasonable excuse to do so.

 

[Bill Schell]

So I just had my 2018 Expy Max in for cam phasers replacement at the dealership. It came back a day later than expected. It turns out, based on the paperwork, that the timing chain was lose. So they also replaced the chain and both tensioners in addition to the cam phasers TSB.

The truck is 2yo and has only 20k miles on it. I haven't seen anyone else complaining about the 4th gen timing chain yet on here. Curious if others are having the same issue.

https://www.expeditionforum.com/threads/ru-kidding-me.44518/

 

[PhrogPilot]

They replaced the timing chains on my 2019 with 19k while doing the cam phasers.

 

[4gen]

ok, so it's not as uncommon as I originally thought. Thanks for the input!

Next up, replacing rear shocks. One shock just emptied itself onto the garage floor...

Again, I've heard of the shock issues, but was under the wrong impression that the 4x4 with a tow package gets equipped with better quality shocks. Apparently not so. The dealership says that they are only authorized to replace the leaking shock and not a pair. So I guess I'll be a regular in their service department soon.

 

[Zig10]

ok, so it's not as uncommon as I originally thought. Thanks for the input!

Next up, replacing rear shocks. One shock just emptied itself onto the garage floor...

Again, I've heard of the shock issues, but was under the wrong impression that the 4x4 with a tow package gets equipped with better quality shocks. Apparently not so. The dealership says that they are only authorized to replace the leaking shock and not a pair. So I guess I'll be a regular in their service department soon.

I have the tow package and can confirm that the struts leak like a sieve. Have had 2 replaced, and the other 2 "aren't leaking badly enough yet" to qualify for Ford replacement...so it will go back next year for those.

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

I have heard unofficially that they are not really stretched but some places are replacing them because its all out anyway and they make extra money...

What is the source of your unofficial information?

 

[Hurricane]

Mine is going in for the two cam phaser replacement soon. Already had all 4 shocks replaced, popping mirrors when changing saved seat position rescanned, O2 sensor, and catalytic converter replaced.

 

[freitz]

I've had cam phasers and timing chain components replaced twice already. Just got mine back 3 weeks ago and its going back again. Honestly thinking of dumping the truck for a Tahoe at this point. 42K miles 2018 Expy with two package.

 

[NukeLife]

I've had cam phasers and timing chain components replaced twice already. Just got mine back 3 weeks ago and its going back again. Honestly thinking of dumping the truck for a Tahoe at this point. 42K miles 2018 Expy with two package.

Are you saying you had cam phaser replacement 3 weeks ago and you already are having the same issue again???

 

[freitz]

Are you saying you had cam phaser replacement 3 weeks ago and you already are having the same issue again???

That's exactly what I am saying. Sadly.

 

[Atticus Mabrry]

Sounds like I have some kindred spirits in here! Ford just called me and said I have about 3k in work that needs to be done on my 2018 Expedition. Sunroof tracks need replacing, catalytic converter has failed (horrible rattle and check engine light), and the AC system has a horrible leak...best part is they say the refrigerant is 650 bucks to replace and could leak out again!? Mind blowing.

 

[Motorcity muscle]

WOW, not good news here about the phasers and chains. Have an '07 with 135,000 and have just done normal maintenance items. These trucks are not cheap and do not think Ford is doing itself any favors by not coming out with a real fix.

 

[Deadman]

That's exactly what I am saying. Sadly.

My wifes 2018 Navigator has like 19,000 miles on it. Its had cam phasers done 3 fn times already and yesterday it threw the timing code check engine light. The service advisor thinks Ford's gonna have to replace the entire engine this time! Unbelievable. They haven't seen it yet, so I hate to speculate, but those were his words.