I recently replaced my timing chain on my 2000 5.4 with 170,000 miles . I followed the steps exactly how the manual said. I also replaced all spark plugs with motorcraft, I put everything back together, started the engine, but its not running right. The engine shakes at idle no service engine light and when I accelerate the engine almost sound like a diesel with no power.
Do you guys think I put the timing chain wrong? or could it be a COP

 

guys I really need some help please.
I need this truck to go to work

 

But will offer an opinion. Sound like you did the timing chain right since my guess is you would experience more noticible problems if it was wrong - popping, backfiring, severe sputter, etc. - or worse, valve / piston catastrophe. If it just shakes a little at idle then I bet a COP is the problem. I changed my plugs at 35k (2006 Navi) and didn't replace the COPS but if you're at high mileage lots of folks here recommend the $80 eBay set.

When you drive it does it accelerate OK? Good luck. I commend you for even trying the timing set. Well done!!

 

With the engine running, unplug the 2-wire connector for the COPs one at a time. You should notice a change in how the engine runs. If you find that disconnecting a COP doesn't cause any change in the engine, you've found the problematic cylinder. If you've found no problems during the COP test, then it's possible you're off a tooth with one of your timing gears.

 

I messed around with a 4.6 windsor that had a bad tick and found it difficult to get the chains back perfectly. There are specialty tools available to hold the chain sprokets in place while you install the chains. These tools differ for windsor and romeo engines. If I ever go in there I would say these tools are a must .

 

Also I meant to say that you should check the compression then you'll know which way to go.

 

do you mean to disconnect all eight one at a time? If so I have already tried that, there is two cop's that i cant really tell if the engine runs different, because the engine already shakes to even notice any difference.
Is there any shop I can just take the truck and have them connect a computer to the OBDII to tell me exactly what is wrong with the expy?
If so what is this computer called?

 

Yes, that is what I meant...one at a time.

If your check engine light is not on, there is no code for a scanner to read. Your options are to figure it out yourself, or take it to the dealer where they have the higher level diagnostic equipment.

 

well the engine runs fine after 2500rpm, there is no engine tick, backfires or any thing funny at all.
would you still think it would be OK to drive the truck till I get some new COP's from eBay?
If this doesn't work I guess I will have to take the timing cover off and look.

 

Hmm, tough call without being there and seeing it for myself.

If the skip is minor and you limit your trips to easy going short necessary ones, then I'd say yes you can drive it. The risk is if too much unburnt fuel gets into the catalytic converters, their lifespan becomes significantly reduced.

 

oh okay, I will just use the truck to go to mechanic shops until it gets fixed.
hopefully its not the timing.
thank you for all your help.

 

Let us know what turns up.

 

if it is the timing.. on the romeo motor (direct from alldata) timing was a breeeze u take ure chain make it completely flatin a straight line and paint the links on either end then u put one link to the dot on the cam and one on the line on crank... i have it online on youtube just search truckeradg86 it will show you proper timing

 

i did all that without ford tools

 

matter of fact i may be able to pull up the alldata for your truck timing specs if u like