3.5 Ecoboost Timing Chain Replacement
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3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain Replacement: Signs, Ford TSBs and Cost

ByTarek

The 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain is responsible for maintaining the synchronous operation of the engine’s valves and pistons. Over time, the timing chain can stretch or wear, leading to engine misfires, reduced power output, or even engine failure. 

Replacing the primary timing chain involves removing the valve covers and engine front cover to reach the chain, tensioners, guides and cam phasers (VCT units). Ford’s own bulletins allow about 9 labor hours for chain-and-phaser work on a 2011–2015 F-150, so it is best performed by a professional.

The 3.5 EcoBoost engine is a popular choice for many car enthusiasts and car owners. It is a twin-turbo V6 with a chain-driven valvetrain, and Ford has issued service bulletins for primary timing chain wear and cam phaser noise on some model years.

Related Article: 3.5 EcoBoost Cam Phaser Replacement: Ford TSBs, Years and Steps

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain, including the signs of a failing timing chain, the process of replacing the timing chain, the cost of replacement, and the benefits of replacing the timing chain.

Signs of a Failing Timing Chain:

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A failing timing chain can lead to several problems with your 3.5 EcoBoost engine. Here are some of the most common signs of a failing timing chain:

  1. Engine Misfire: A timing chain that is stretched or has jumped a tooth can cause an engine to misfire, resulting in a decrease in power and efficiency.
  2. Engine Noise: Ford’s TSB 18-2305 describes a ticking, tapping or rattle from the top front of the engine for 2–5 seconds on a cold start after the truck sits 6 hours or more.
  3. Check Engine Light: a stretched chain can set cam/crank correlation codes. Ford’s TSB 17-0026 ties P0016 on some 2011–2014 F-150s to a worn primary chain.
  4. Engine Stalling: A timing chain that has failed can cause the engine to stall, especially at low speeds or during acceleration.
  5. Engine Damage: A failed timing chain can cause serious engine damage, such as bent valves or damaged pistons.
  6. Rough Running: owners report rough idle or hesitation alongside these codes, though a chain is not the only possible cause.

Note: If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further engine damage.

Ford TSBs for 3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain and Cam Phaser Noise

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Before paying for a chain, ask a Ford dealer whether one of these bulletins applies to your VIN. A TSB is a repair procedure, not a recall, and it does not change warranty coverage on its own.

  • TSB 17-0026 (March 8, 2017): 2011–2014 F-150 3.5L built on or before October 10, 2014 with P0016. If the VCT_INT_ACT1 reading is +6 degrees or more, Ford says to replace the primary timing chain. Supersedes 15-0044.
  • TSB 18-2305 (October 24, 2018): 2011–2015 F-150 built on or before May 29, 2015 with the cold-start rattle. Ford replaces all four VCT units and the primary chain, about 9.2 labor hours (2011–2014) or 9.0 hours (2015). Supersedes 16-0027.
  • TSB 23-2143 (May 4, 2023): 2017–2020 F-150 and 2018–2020 Expedition and Navigator built on or before November 30, 2019. The cause is worn VCT units (cam phasers), and the fix replaces the phasers, not the chain. Supersedes 22-2200.

If your truck is a 2017 or newer, the noise is more likely the cam phasers. Our 3.5 EcoBoost cam phaser replacement guide covers those programs and the phaser job step by step.

Ford 3.5L EcoBoost timing chain and cam phaser TSBs 17-0026, 18-2305 and 23-2143 by vehicle, symptom and repair
Ford TSBs 17-0026, 18-2305 and 23-2143.

The Process of Replacing the 3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain:

Replacing the timing chain in a 3.5 EcoBoost engine is a complex process that requires specific tools and knowledge. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

  1. Locate a flat and level surface to work on.
  2. Ensure that you have all the necessary tools and parts.
  3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  4. Support the engine only if your workshop manual calls for it.

Step 2: Drain Engine Oil

  1. Locate the oil drain plug and remove it using a socket wrench.
  2. Allow the engine oil to drain into a drain pan.
  3. Reinstall the oil drain plug.

Step 3: Remove Engine Accessories

  1. Remove the parts in the way of the front cover, such as the intake tube and accessory drive belt, as your workshop manual lists for your year.
  2. Label the parts and connections to ensure proper reinstallation.

Step 4: Timing Chain Access

  1. Remove the timing chain cover using a socket wrench.
  2. Locate the timing chain and tensioner.
  3. Set the engine to the position the workshop manual specifies, install the camshaft holding tools it calls for, then remove the tensioner.

Step 5: Replacing the Timing Chain

  1. Remove the old timing chain.
  2. Install the new chain and align the timing marks exactly as Ford’s Workshop Manual Section 303-01 shows (the section Ford’s TSBs reference).
  3. Reinstall the timing chain tensioner and tighten it to the correct torque specification.

Step 6: Reinstall Engine Accessories

  1. Reinstall the parts you removed.
  2. Reconnect any electrical connections.
  3. Tighten all bolts and clamps to the correct torque specification.

Step 7: Refill Engine Oil

  1. Fill the engine with the recommended oil type and amount.
  2. Start the engine and check for any leaks or other problems.
  3. Check the oil level and add more oil if needed.

Step 8: Final Inspection

  1. Scan for codes such as P0016 to P0019 and confirm the cold-start rattle is gone.
  2. Check for any leaks or other problems.
  3. Test drive the vehicle to ensure proper operation.

Note: This is a general guide to replacing the 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain. The specific process varies by engine generation (2011–2016 vs 2017 and later) and vehicle. It is best to consult a professional mechanic or the vehicle’s repair manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

See Also:

Tools required for 3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain Replacement:

  1. Engine Support Bar
  2. Timing Chain Tool Kit
  3. Socket Set
  4. Wrench Set
  5. Torque Wrench
  6. Ratchet
  7. Pliers
  8. Screwdrivers
  9. Pry Bar
  10. Flat Blade Screwdriver
  11. Engine Oil Drain Pan
  12. Engine Oil Filter Wrench
  13. Shop Rags

Note: Some of these tools may be optional, depending on the specific replacement process. It is best to consult a professional mechanic or the vehicle’s repair manual for a complete list of tools required for your specific make and model.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

When replacing the timing chain in a 3.5 EcoBoost engine, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

  1. Not using the correct tools: Using the wrong tools or not having the correct tools can lead to incorrect installation and damage to the engine.
  2. Not properly securing the engine: Failing to secure the engine before removing parts can lead to injury or damage to the engine.
  3. Not draining the engine oil: Failing to drain the engine oil before replacing the timing chain can result in oil contamination and damage to the engine.
  4. Improperly reinstalling engine accessories: Failing to properly reinstall engine accessories, such as the air intake and exhaust systems, can result in engine performance issues and leaks.
  5. Incorrect torque specifications: Tightening bolts and clamps to the incorrect torque specification can result in engine damage or failure.
  6. Not properly aligning the timing marks: Failing to properly align the timing marks can result in engine damage or failure.
  7. Not checking for leaks or other problems after installation: Failing to check for leaks or other problems after installation can result in engine damage or failure.
  8. Not testing the vehicle after installation: Failing to test the vehicle after installation can result in engine performance issues or other problems.

Note: It is best to consult a professional mechanic or the vehicle’s repair manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on avoiding common mistakes during timing chain replacement.

Cost of Replacing the 3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain:

The cost of replacing the 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain varies depending on several factors, including the cost of the timing chain, the cost of labor, and the cost of any additional parts that may need to be replaced. Ford’s TSB 18-2305 allows about 9.0 to 9.2 labor hours to replace all four VCT units and the primary chain on a 2011–2015 F-150, so with parts the bill can easily exceed $1,500. Quotes vary widely by shop and region, so get a written estimate and check for TSB coverage first.

Benefits of Replacing the 3.5 EcoBoost Timing Chain:

There are several benefits to replacing the timing chain in your 3.5 EcoBoost engine, including:

  1. Correct Cam Timing: a new chain restores timing, which can clear chain-related codes such as P0016. It will not add power beyond stock.
  2. Lower Risk of Damage: replacing a worn chain before it jumps a tooth avoids much costlier engine damage.
  3. Smoother Running: misfires and rough idle caused by timing errors should go away.
  4. Quieter Cold Starts: the rattle Ford describes in TSB 18-2305 should stop if the chain or phasers were the cause.

FAQs:

How often should I replace my 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain?

There is no set interval. The F-150 owner’s manual maintenance schedule does not list timing chain replacement, so the chain is replaced when it is worn. Ford’s TSB 17-0026 covers primary chain wear on some 2011–2014 F-150s that set P0016.

Can I drive my car with a failing timing chain?

No, it’s not recommended to drive your car with a failing timing chain. Doing so can cause engine damage or other problems.

How can I tell if my timing chain is failing?

Look for a 2–5 second rattle on a cold start after the truck sits 6 hours or more, a check engine light with P0016 or other cam/crank correlation codes, misfires or rough running. A scan tool reading of cam timing helps confirm it.

Is it expensive to replace the 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain?

Yes. Ford’s TSB 18-2305 allows about 9.0 to 9.2 labor hours for the four VCT units plus the primary chain on a 2011–2015 F-150, so with parts it can easily exceed $1,500. Quotes vary by shop and region.

Is a timing chain rattle the same as a cam phaser problem?

Not always. On 2011–2015 F-150s Ford’s TSB 18-2305 replaces the phasers and the primary chain, but on 2017–2020 trucks TSB 23-2143 blames worn VCT units and replaces only the phasers. Our cam phaser replacement guide covers that repair.

2011-2016 Ford F-150 3.5L Ecoboost Timing Set Replacement Part 1: Getting Inside the Engine

Conclusion

3.5 EcoBoost timing chain replacement is a long job, about 9 labor hours by Ford’s own TSB times, so it suits experienced DIYers with the workshop manual and special tools. This guide covers the signs, Ford’s bulletins, the steps and the tools,

and cost factors. Check with a Ford dealer whether a TSB applies before you start, and if your truck is a 2017 or newer, see our cam phaser replacement guide.

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Author

  • Tarek

    Dive into the powerful and efficient world of Ford’s Ecoboost technology with me, Tarek, your guide in exploring its intricate marvels. Armed with 4 years of immersive experience and specialized focus on Ford’s Ecoboost engine lineup, my mission pivots on bringing you the most accurate, compelling, and user-friendly insights into these powerful machines.

    My journey, albeit with its own curves and turns, has been driven by a fervent passion and an insatiable curiosity for automotive technologies. At Fordmasterx, my analyses, experiences, and explorations are translated into words, aiming to empower your Ford experience with a blend of technical wisdom and on-road practicality. Together, let’s throttle forward into a world where power meets efficiency, guided by expertise and driven by pure passion.

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