At what mileage does Ford recommends replacing timing chains and gears in the 5.4?

 

I don't know if most of you have seen the overhead valve setup on the new Triton motors but it is very slick to say the least. If you haven't, get a hold of a Haynes manual and check out the engine section - there are some very cool pics in there. The most impressive thing I notice is that the timing chain slack is kept in check with a hydraulic tensioner system.

I guess what I am saying is that that system looks like it will last a long, long time. Of course the chain will stretch over time but with Ford's setup you should feel no ill affects.

So, the question would be how long till she breaks? Well, that is a good question since what I read is that the Tritons are interference type motors. That means, for us non-motorhead types, when the chain breaks the valves stand a very good chance of colliding with the pistons which in turn would surely ruin the motor.

I have heard of timing belts breaking but not timing chains. I'm sure they break once in a while but not enough to warrant a replace at a certain interval. The pistons, rings or valves would surely go before the timing chain.

Anyway, thats my $0.02 worth - okay maybe $2.00. I am a little long winded

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'97 F150 Lariat, Flareside, white/sliver, SC, ORP, 5.4 (FQR 8/99) running Mobil 1
Mods: 305/70/16 GY ATS, AR Baja wheels, dual exhaust, Smittybilt Nerf Bars, Edelbrock IAS Shocks, K&N Filter, Carbon Fiber Bug Gaurd and rigged the fog lights too.

 

Maybe Neal1 could tell us. This dude knows his stuff!

 

I guess they assume you will replace the chain when you rebuild the rest of the motor at 300,000 miles.

 

Just think about the last time (if ever) you heard of a chain breaking -- and if so, what percentage of normal load caused it to break -- then try to estimate how that kind of stress could possibly be imposed on your cam chain to cause an overload (care to guess how many passenger elevators use chain-pulls???).

Sleep easy.