Question: 2002 Ford Ranger
I bought a 2002 Ford Ranger 3.0 liter V-6 from 500 Motors in Oceanside CA. I've had it less than a year. It was squealing and stalling while driving. I ran the error code and it said Camshaft Sensor. I replaced it and that didn't help. I determined it was the camshaft synchronizer. Took it to North County Ford in Vista, CA. They agreed and when they tried to use extended warranty they discovered that 500 Motors changed the warranty. So I'm out $90.00 for diagnosis of what I already knew, and $130.00 for the synchronizer. NOT paying $485.00 to pay for North County Ford to do work.
Basically here is what I would like to know:
- In depth procedure for replacing cam synchronizer (pics are very helpful).
- The part number or where to find (reasonable) alignment tool.
- Any tips / tricks to make it go smoother.
Thanks,
LCPL Reinoehl, AJ USMC
Answer:
The only place I know you can get the alignment tool is a Ford Dealer. They can order one for you. It is part number ST2362-A. You can also Try Kent-Moore Tools. You can call them at 1-800-345-2233 and order a catalog.
As for replacing the Camshaft Synchronizer, this is not a job I would recommend for a DIY with less than moderate to advanced skill. There is the very real possibility of doing some serious engine damage. You can go to the Public Library and get the appropriate MOTORS Manual and look up the procedure and decide if this is something you want to do on your own or have a shop do it.
And if you buy an extended warranty they simple can't just "change" it. It is a contract and once signed they cannot change it with mutual consent between you and them. If they will not honor the provisions of the contract then you have legal recourse.
Question: 1997 BMW 528i
My 1997 BMW 528i runs hot at drive through, long red light, etc, but when you take off it cools down. I changed the thermostat in it and it is doing the same thing. My question is: where is the fan switch and fan relay on this car located. Could you send me a diagram of some sort? Please help.
Kelly
Answer:
Your car uses a fan mounted on the front of the water pump and is belt driven. There is a fan clutch on which the fan itself is mounted. The fan clutch contains a silicone fluid which locks the fan clutch and drives the fan when it reaches a certain temperature. When it is below that temperature the fan just free wheels.
Start the engine and let it run with the hood closed. Listen to the engine and monitor the engine temperature. When the engine gets hot you should hear a definite roar as the fan clutch locks and starts to drive the fan. If you do not hear this when the engine starts to heat up, you probably have a bad fan clutch.
