Ford 3.0 V6 cam synchronizer

[Robert]

The is the part ford stuck in place of the distributor after going to coil packs. It just tells the computer where the cam is in relation to the crank rotating and calculates timing. It also takes the drive from the cam gear to run the oil pump.

The upper bushing on these can get oil starved over time and seize up. They in turn stop turning the oil pump drive and motor lockup follows. Its failing is known by a chirping noise that follows engine RPM. It seems to come from everywhere (both sides of the engine) when listening since the sound is bouncing off the fire wall.

The normal life span is in the 90,000-100,000 mile interval. Luckily in most cases, it can be changed without pulling the upper intake. Its the same amount of labor as changing a distributor as long as you take notes of where everything was pointing when you pull it apart.

Topic

[Bill Clayton]

Just a added note: :blink:
Today’s engine tolerances are a lot closer than in the past and that’s one of the reasons they requires 5w20 synthetic oil. All though you can get longer mileage between oil and filter changes. It still needs to be done in order for the oil system to keep everything lubed.
If you ignore the mileage between oil changes you will pay the price in a destroyed engine. Your engine cant pump sludge! :whistle:
Bill

okay I will get off my soap box now :pinch:

[Robert]

Engine cleanliness is not a factor in this. It’s a poor design in the part where the upper bushing gets marginal lubrication.

My 2000 Ranger has 170,000 miles and has always gotten 5W20 oil and a Motorcraft FL400S filter every 3000-4000 miles.
When I did my water pump at 150,000 miles, I pulled the timing cover and replaced the timing chain while I had the front of the motor apart anyway. The inside of my engine has zero sludge and the cam synchro started its chirping at 110,000 miles and needed a replacement.

See here for more info:

http://www.rangerpowersports.com/forum/3-0-v6-tech/203433-cam-synro.html

[Author]

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