Can anyone tell me how easy it is to replace the timing chain, or how much it would cost to have a shop replace it? (just a general estimate) Thanks in advance!

 

Oh and I have the 5.8L 351w!

 

It's like super easy... for me.

 

Its not hard to replace the timing set - the hardest part is getting to it. Pulling out the radiator, cooling fan/shroud, water pump, etc.

I betcha a shop wouldn't touch it for less than $500.

 

It's just taking stuff apart and remembering how it goes back together. I don't see how people can't do it.

 

Dang thats pretty steep! How many hours do you think it would take to remove everything, replace the set, and put everything back on? In general? I have a reliable and trustworthy mechanic that charges by the hour. Just trying to get a ball park figure on what it would cost. Thanks guys

 

Doing it yourself is not that hard, but not that easy for someone who hasn't done it.

Suggest to get a shop manual (Chilton's, Haynes, etc.), follow the directions, take it really easy with the water pump bolts, and allow yourself about 8 hours.

Patience, and follow the directions no matter how silly they seem. On the other hand, a mechanic who knows what he's doing - eh, guessing 4-6 hours barring any unexpected water pump bolt failures???

 

Id say 4-5 hours. The chain itself isnt too expensive. but around here the labor will run you 80-125 an hour.

 

Me too.... Prolly do one in 45 minutes or less

 

I did mine while I was changing the water pump last fall (92 F150, 5.8L). Broke a water pump bolt off, so I had to pull the timing cover to get the stub out. I spent all day, but I detailed everything while I had it apart. Degreased all the parts, and re-shot the front of the engine. It all looks nice now.

The timing set was only like $15 at O'Reilly for a double-roller steel set; ridiculously cheap. The gasket set was about the same price, if I remember correctly.

I could bang through the project in about 4 hours, if I didn't worry about cleaning/detailing. A beginner should be able to knock it out in a day; no problem. Definately get a FSM or at least an aftermarket manual as guidance.

Like others have said, it's not a particularly difficult job. If it's your first time, take lots of digital photos, tag and bag everything, and lay it all out in order on a large surface where things won't get disturbed until it's all back together.

The money you'll save is nice, but the self-satisfaction is priceless...

Good Luck,

JD