Fixed - Camshaft syncronizer squeaking, '98 3.8 Mustang

Squeaking is fixed! This was shot right after replacing the camshaft synchronizer (bad bearing) as well as the camshaft sensor for good measure.

NAPA auto part # is BK600-2902. It comes with synchronizer, sensor, and a plastic tool to make sure the alignment is maintained between old syncro and new - all for only ~$45.

20 degrees f when this was shot. Camshaft syncronizer sqeaking on '98 3.8 V6 Ford Mustang. This is the noise the engine was making before changing out the camshaft syncronizer & sensor. I had a check engine code indicating The camshaft position sensor was faulty, also had a great mechanic who diagnosed the sound. Some folks might jump to blame the pulley bearing, but you can do a quick test yourself by placing a metal rod on different places on the engine, with the other end pressed to you ear.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• 1998
• Ford
• Mustang
• 3.8
• V6
• camshaft
• syncronizer
• sensor
• squeak
• chirp
• fix
• solution

[jonathanstotts]

The only issue I had - the thin rod that sticks out the end of the syncro, into the engine. You'll need to reuse that. I had a tough time getting it to go all the way back in. I eventually noticed that the tip of the rod is not perfectly symmetrical - the point is off-center. Make sure that point is facing away from 'down', so there a ramp to help the rod make its way in.

[jonathanstotts]

...once you have it accessible, note how the sensor is facing, then remove it (take lots of pics!). Place the plastic tool on the now exposed syncro (it only fits one way). Make a mark on the engine where the arrow is pointing. When you put it the new syncro, just match up the position using that mark!

[jonathanstotts]

Sorry, I don't have a video showing how to swap it out. You'll need to remove the distributor cap, remove the metal mount it sits on, and I had to remove the coolant hose that lays right across the top of the sensor...

[1589551]

Do you have a video on how you changed the synchronizer, my car is doing the same thing, I have the manual but its confusing, can you help me out.

[MrSTANGlover]

IT'S ALIVE!!! lol :)