Posting this in hopes it helps someone with similar problems. I always thought I had a Romeo motor due to the VIN. I was wrong, it's a Windsor. I should have asked here first. Anyway, motor starting ticking. I thought it was an exhaust leak. No leaks, manifolds look perfect, truck has never been out of Florida. Used a mechanics stethoscope, noise pointed to timing chains. Got a quote from local Indy shop for $1500, decided to do it myself, with help from a buddy. Ordered the timing chain kit from internet. The tensioner arms and guides did not match. For one, I ordered the Romeo kit, second my truck is titled as 01, but manufactured in August so parts match 02. Ford dealer quoted $525 for the guides/tensioner arms. Got Cloyes from O'Reilley's for $95. Plastic guide on passenger side was completely destroyed. Cam on passenger side was dry and showed signs of heat. There was damage at cam clamps,
smoothed all surfaces and put back together with assembly lube. Took apart the oil restrictor at the back of the head. It had what looked like filter material blocking the small port in the restrictor. I have only used Motorcraft filters, but I'm not the original owner. Verified good oil flow before putting valve covers back on. The job took a day and a half. Replaced both chains, tensioners, guides, tensioner arms, valve cover gaskets, water pump, serpentine belt. Running like new now, quiet and smooth, all power restored.

 

Nice report.
Thank you.

 

i think I have same problem on f150 4.6 Windsor 2005, my new lifters won’t pump up and I’m getting ticking thru out passenger valve cover, I suppose it’s best for me to check/change tensioner. Also, do you have to take cam shaft out to clean check restrictor? Or just remove a cap? Thanks