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I was replacing the VCT solenoids on my 2004 F150 Lariat and dropped the screw into the drivers side valve cover. Apparently, a previous owner had put a no name brand VCT solenoid on that side that didn't have the screw trapped in the housing so of course it fell out as I was pulling it out. I'm not tearing into my motor so what are my options? Any chance I can fish it out with a magnet? Has anybody gotten this screw out without taking off the valve cover? What happens if I don't get it out? Please help.
This is not looking good. I can't even get the power steering bracket off. There's two bolts down low that I can hardly reach and I can't for the life of me get any size socket to fit on them. Does anybody know what size they are?
Apparently there's only one bolt but I guess I don't own a socket that fits it. It must be a 18mm since that size doesn't come in standard Craftsman tool sets. I've tried every other one and they don't seem to fit. Anybody help with a size? Please.
Update: I got it out. It's a miracle! I was just blindly working my magnet tool around in there and came back up with it. Thank God! By the way, the lower bolt on the power steering bracket is 18mm.
Wow @waldreps. Sorry I didn't spot your thread sooner. I could have told you the lower P/S bracket bolt is 18mm (there's a story there about how I know that - but that's for another day).
As for the VCT screw - I would have bet my life you would never get it from above even with the valve cover off. I would have been suggesting pulling the oil pan and HOPE its there - else it got caught up on the timing chain / guides, behind a phaser, or somewhere under the FC.