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