Though NOT an F150 it uses the Gen 1 EB used in the F-150 up to 2016. What I need to do is replace the timing chain and parts, along with the water pump since its internal compared to the F150 which is external. What brand should I look for to get the replacement parts? It has nearly 185K miles on it, and I am starting to hear slapping on cold start, the sound the chain makes when slack when worn. I can see a crap load if waterpump chain kits, but This is too big a job to spend time on with unknown parts. I made that mistake on the HVAC vent control motor which takes over 4 hours to replace and now have to do it all over again 6 months later.

 

With 185K on it, it seems like that timing chain doesn't owe you a dime. For the tear-down required to replace it, I would wonder what else would be due for replacement, and maybe looking at an engine replacement or something else (like a trade-in)? That's just where my head went, others on this list might have other opinions.

 

The Flex is in excellent condition, and the engine runs like new, lots of power, transmission doesn't slip or shudder, and shifts perfectly. Considering I paid $4500 for it, and it sells for $12-14K with those miles, I know its worth putting money into it. No rust either. I just hope I can get better quality HVAC motors this time around, the last one I replaced lasted all of 6 months before cracking a gear. Been looking for a Motorcraft one that doesn't cost 10 times all the other ones. I may give a Dorman a try instead of the Amazon ones.

The engine and trans is leak free, clean, smooth. I can tell the chain has stretched a bit though, or the tensioners are relaxing or draining down because occasionally it will clatter on cold start. It has internal water pump which is another concern at this miles, no leaks, but want to keep it that way. I did a scope through the oil fill and the valve train is spotless too, not a spot of gunk in there. It is about due for an oil change so I figured to get the chain and pump done before the cold weather sets in.

What I am looking for is a quality name to get from. I can find tons of chain kits on Amazon and the web, but none have a brand name. I found a Cloyes kit on Rockauto. Is that a decent company? I see the same kits on Jegs, Summit and a few others for twice the price, so I can reseal the entire upper part of the engine as well as the chain and pump kits for what those places are selling them for, I just need to know if its a good brand.

 

I would recommend oem motorcraft parts know they're pricey but for a reason. Checkout techs on youtube that will only throw in oem parts after having to fix so many aftermarket installs.

 

Unfortunately, Motorcraft parts for the Flex EB is unobtainium except through a dealer, provided not on back order. The last Flex Ecoboost was built in 2019. While majority of the parts interchange with the NA 3.5, all the internal WP ones were no longer built after the 2020. I check Rock Auto and cannot find any Motorcraft parts for the waterpump or timing set.

Did some research on Cloyes, Made in USA parts. Mellings apparently has made some of the Ford parts. I will check with my dealer on all the parts. Would rather use a full kit with all the required parts than piece it together, then find I missed a part and have to wait with the engine opened up for a week.