1999 F 150 V6 ....

[Elmer Fudge]

Does it have a timing belt or a timing chain?<br /><br />How often should it be replaced?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Chain. The chains themselves break vary rarely but the tensioners do wear. <br /><br /><br />Bob

 

[Elmer Fudge]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Originally posted by Bob_VT:<br /> Chain. The chains themselves break vary rarely but the tensioners do wear. <br /><br /><br />Bob

This truck has 125K on the odometer, i commute approx 70 miles daily, and on weekends it tows my 15ft fishing boat.<br />This type of service has never been done on this truck, it drives like a champ, but i'm thinking that it may be time for some major service, I'm wondering how much longer can i put it off, since money is kinda tight at the moment.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Well, you could pull evrything to get to the chain but from what I understand you can usually hear them when the tensioner gets worn. 125K is really not that much in the terms of a 1999. <br /><br />I would just baby it and keep the fluids changed and don't forget the transmission.<br /><br />Bob

 

[Elmer Fudge]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Thanks Bob

 

[demsvmejm]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

I agree with Bob. Chains don't normally break. Unless it's a weak component. If that were the case, you'd hear of other's with failed chains. If you do service this engine, go with OEM parts. You can have your friendly neighborhood independent shop replace your t-chain and gears, but don't use aftermarket parts. I just read an article in MOTOR magazine(an auto repair trade publication) relating to failed harmonic balancers due to a part change. The article subject was a model year 2000 Ford E250 with a 4.2L V-6. Unfortunately the online issue is the April issue and the article I am speaking of is the May issue. You probably have no imminent danger of engine failure, but ot be safe, check with a reputable garage and ask if this engien would suffer catastrophic damage if the t-chain breaks. If it will, it is what is called an interference engine. Most t-chain engines aren't but some are, so it would be safe to check. But you are probably safe, especially at 125K. Good luck.

 

[notinbig]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

There is NO service interval for timing chains. They are replaced if...... they brake, or they start to slap due to a faulty tensioner. If you replace it with no symptoms you are throwing money away.

 

[DJ]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

There is NO service interval for timing chains. They are replaced if...... they brake, or they start to slap due to a faulty tensioner. If you replace it with no symptoms you are throwing money away.<br />

Ditto.

 

[Vlad D Impeller]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Would'nt prevention cost a lot less than the cure in this case?<br />If the chain breaks what are the damages to the engine?

 

[Grant S]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

Vlad, I think the point is that with a chain you get plenty of warning that it is on the way out, (noise etc.) With a belt it just snaps.

 

[Vlad D Impeller]

Re: 1999 F 150 V6 ....

okie dokie!