Ford Explorer: Engine - 2.3L EcoBoost (201kW/273PS) / Removal and Installation - Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit

Ford Explorer 2020-2026 Service Manual / Powertrain / Engine / Engine - 2.3L EcoBoost (201kW/273PS) / Removal and Installation - Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Unit

Removal

NOTICE: During engine repair procedures, cleanliness is extremely important. Any foreign material, including any material created while cleaning gasket surfaces, that enters the oil passages, coolant passages or the oil pan can cause engine failure.

  1. Remove the timing chain.
    Refer to: Timing Chain (303-01A Engine - 2.3L EcoBoost (201kW/273PS), Removal and Installation).
    • Using a wrench on the flats of the exhaust camshaft to prevent cam rotation, remove the bolt and the exhaust VCT unit.
    • Discard the bolt.
    • Using a wrench on the flats of the intake camshaft to prevent cam rotation, remove the bolt and the intake VCT unit.
    • Discard the bolt.

Installation

  1. NOTE: Install new VCT unit bolts.

    NOTE: Do not tighten the bolts at this time. The bolts will be tightened during the timing chain installation procedure.

    Install the exhaust and intake VCT units and the new bolts finger tight.
  1. Install the timing chain.
    Refer to: Timing Chain (303-01A Engine - 2.3L EcoBoost (201kW/273PS), Removal and Installation).

    Removal and Installation - Valve Tappets

    Removal Remove the camshafts. Refer to: Camshafts (303-01A Engine - 2.3L EcoBoost (201kW/273PS), Removal and Installation). If the camshafts and valve tappets are to be reu..

    Removal - Engine

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