I have a 2002 Explorer that developed a upper end tick about 4 days ago. It sounds like it has either a burnt valve or its stuck open. The vehicle has 211xxx miles. I was just wondering if anyones had this problem before and what did you do to fix the issue. Also, will a 4.0l sohc from any of the past years fit right in or would i have to modify mounts or get a new transmission?? Any info would be helpful. Thanks

 

Ticking up top is a real red flag. These motors have tensioner and guide issues right from day one. Many go to high miles, but at your mileage, it would not be a surprise.

I'm not sure how to advise you on a fix. Servicing the passenger side tensioner etc requires engine removal. Since we don't know what's wrong, that might be extreme.

Can you pull the valve cover and have a looky-see?

AFAIK, all the SOHC motors will interchange without too much trouble, including Mustangs. You do need your intake and exhaust, accessory drives etc, and all the stuff that plugs in to your harness needs to stay in the vehicle and be transferred to the new motor.

I hate to send you off to another site, but this long thread tells the tale of interchange, and gives more links at the second to last page:

Mustang SOHC engine swap coming... - Ford Explorer and Ranger Forums "Serious Explorations"®